Baidu launches quantum computer in China and gives people access via PC, smartphone or the cloud
- Qianshi quantum computer can be accessed by a Baidu app, with users able to download software and send their own computing task
- Leading quantum scientist Pan Jianwei says it is a brave first step towards bringing the futuristic technology out of the laboratory
In addition, it built a system enabling everyone to gain access to the quantum computer with any device, including a smartphone.
The computer has just 10 qubits, a relatively small number compared with more advanced systems built by China’s top universities and Western companies, such as Google and IBM.
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But China’s leading quantum scientist said there were high hopes for the new system because it was a brave first step towards bringing the futuristic technology out of the laboratory.
“I’m glad to see investment from China’s enterprises promote exploration,” said Pan, who led the development of the world’s first quantum satellite, Mozi.
The quantum computer is called Qianshi and can be accessed by a Baidu app from the Apple, Huawei or Xiaomi stores. Users can download the software and send their own computing task, such as a quantum circuit experiment, to Qianshi.
The Baidu quantum computer uses superconducting materials to generate an extremely low temperature for the quantum processor unit, which is similar to a CPU in a traditional computer.