Reports: Origin Quantum Computing Unveils 72-Qubit Quantum Computer

Insider Brief

• Origin Quantum Computing Technology in Hefei, China launched “Origin Wukong,” according to media reports.
• Origin Wukong is a third-generation 72-qubit superconducting quantum computer.
• This makes it the most advanced programmable and deliverable superconducting quantum computer in China.
• Image: An earlier mode of China’s leading QC maker, Origin Quantum Computing Technology

The third-generation superconducting quantum computer, “Origin Wukong,” was launched on January 6 at Origin Quantum Computing Technology in Hefei, according to Chinese-based media outlet, The Global Times, as reported by the Pakistan Today.

According to the news outlets, the “Origin Wukong” is powered by a 72-qubit superconducting quantum chip, known as the “Wukong chip.” This development marks a new milestone in China’s quantum computing journey as it’s the most advanced programmable and deliverable superconducting quantum computer in China, as per a joint statement from the Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center and the Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Quantum Computing Chips, shared with the Global Times.

Superconducting quantum computers, such as the “Origin Wukong,” rely on a approach being investigated by several other quantum computer makers, including IBM and Google quantum devices.

The “Origin Wukong” is equipped with Origin Quantum’s third-generation quantum computing measurement and control system, according to the media. This system has enabled China’s first automated batch testing of quantum chips, significantly increasing the efficiency of quantum computing operations, Kong Weicheng, Deputy Director of the Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center, stated in the joint statement.

Jia Zhilong, Deputy Director of the Anhui Provincial Key Laboratory of Quantum Computing Chips, reported that the “Wukong chip” comprises a total of 198 qubits, including 72 working qubits and 126 coupler qubits. As its name suggests, a coupler qubit is used to facilitate interactions between other qubits, sometimes referred to as working qubits.

Origin Quantum, established in 2017, has been a frontrunner in China’s quantum computing advancements. It has delivered its first- and second-generation superconducting quantum computers to the Chinese market. Pakistan Today points out the company has achieved several milestones, including establishing China’s first quantum chip production line, developing the country’s first quantum computer operating system, and creating the first quantum computing measurement and control system. In the realm of quantum computing patents, Origin Quantum holds the top position in China and is ranked sixth globally.

The Global Times is a daily tabloid newspaper under the auspices of the Chinese Communist Party’s flagship newspaper, the People’s Daily. Pakistan Today is a Pakistani English-language daily newspaper, published by Nawa Media Corporation from three Pakistani cities – Lahore, Punjab; Karachi, Sindh; and Islamabad, Islamabad Capital Territory