quantum computing Archives | Digital Watch Observatory

China unveils Hanyuan-2 dual-core quantum computer breakthrough

China’s CAS Cold Atom Technology has unveiled Hanyuan-2, a 200-qubit neutral atom quantum computer that Chinese state media described as the world’s first dual-core neutral atomic quantum computer.

Developed in Wuhan by a company affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hanyuan-2 is presented as a shift from single-core to dual-core quantum architecture. The system uses neutral-atom array technology and combines 100 rubidium-85 and 100 rubidium-87 atoms to form a 200-qubit system.

The dual-core architecture allows the two processing units to operate independently in parallel or to work together in a main-and-support configuration. Developers say the approach could improve computational efficiency, support error correction and help address challenges linked to stability, qubit interference and scalability.

Unlike many quantum systems that require highly specialised operating environments, Hanyuan-2 is described as using a compact integrated design with a simplified laser-cooling setup and power consumption below 7 kilowatts. The design is intended to reduce operating complexity and make quantum computing systems easier to deploy.

The announcement highlights China’s continued investment in quantum computing hardware, particularly neutral atom systems. However, the system’s practical performance remains difficult to assess publicly because detailed benchmarks such as gate fidelity, coherence time and error rates have not yet been released in peer-reviewed or standardised form.

Why does it matter?

Hanyuan-2 points to growing experimentation with quantum computing architectures designed to improve scalability, stability and efficiency. Dual-core designs could support more flexible processing and error-correction approaches, but their real significance will depend on independently verifiable performance metrics. For now, the announcement is best understood as a signal of China’s ambition in quantum hardware rather than proof of practical superiority over other systems.

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New research initiative targets biology with quantum computing and AI

Google has launched REPLIQA, a life sciences and quantum AI research programme backed by a $10 million commitment to five universities. The initiative aims to apply advanced quantum science and AI to biological research, with a long-term focus on improving understanding of human biology and health.

Google Quantum AI and Google.org lead the programme and will support research into complex molecular interactions, including biological processes such as protein folding and cellular responses to new drugs. Google says classical computers often struggle to simulate such interactions accurately, while quantum technologies operate according to the same physical principles that govern molecules.

The funding will support work at Harvard University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of California, San Diego, the University of California, Santa Barbara, and the University of Arizona. Google says the programme is intended to build a shared scientific ecosystem around quantum science, AI and life sciences.

The initiative will focus on foundational tools such as quantum sensors and quantum-enhanced AI algorithms that could support future discoveries in biological science and drug development. Google describes REPLIQA as a long-term research effort rather than a programme expected to produce immediate results.

Why does it matter?

REPLIQA points to growing interest in combining quantum science, AI and life sciences to address biological problems that are difficult for classical computing to model. Its significance lies less in immediate health applications and more in the research infrastructure it aims to build: sensors, algorithms and academic partnerships that could eventually improve biological simulations and support future medical discovery.

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China opens a new era of computing with fourth generation quantum machine

China has launched its fourth-generation superconducting quantum computer, marking a further step in the country’s push to scale advanced computing infrastructure. Developed by Origin Quantum, the system, named Origin Wukong-180, has begun accepting quantum computing tasks from users worldwide.

The machine is built around a 180-qubit superconducting chip and integrates fully self-developed core systems, including the chip architecture, measurement and control systems, environmental support, and operating software. According to the company, the platform represents full-stack domestic capability across the quantum computing chain.

Origin Wukong-180 builds on earlier generations of the system, following the third-generation version that has already processed tens of millions of remote accesses and hundreds of thousands of computing tasks across more than 160 countries.

The company also reports milestones such as China’s first export of quantum computing services and the establishment of the country’s first quantum chip production line.

Researchers and developers view systems like Origin Wukong-180 as part of a broader shift toward practical quantum computing applications in areas such as AI, cryptography, finance, biochemistry, and engineering design, where large-scale computational power could reshape existing technological limits.

Why does it matter?

The development signals a broader shift in global technological competition, where quantum computing is becoming a strategic layer of future digital infrastructure alongside AI and advanced semiconductor systems.

As countries race to build scalable quantum capabilities, control over this technology could influence breakthroughs in secure communications, complex simulations, and financial modelling, while also reshaping supply chains for high-performance computing.

Wider global access to such systems may accelerate scientific discovery, but it also raises questions about technological dependence, standards-setting, and long-term geopolitical balance in the digital economy.

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New MIT research hub targets future of advanced computation

IBM and the MIT Schwarzman College of Computing have launched the MIT-IBM Computing Research Lab, expanding their long-running partnership into a broader research agenda focused on AI, algorithms, and quantum computing.

The initiative builds on the earlier MIT-IBM Watson AI Lab and reflects the rapid shift towards AI deployment and emerging quantum technologies.

The lab aims to explore the convergence of AI and quantum systems, including hybrid computing models that combine classical infrastructure with next-generation quantum hardware.

Research priorities include efficient AI architectures, advanced optimisation methods, and new algorithmic frameworks designed to improve reliability, transparency, and real-world applicability of machine learning systems.

Alongside AI development, the lab will focus on quantum algorithms for complex scientific problems in fields such as chemistry, biology, and materials science. Work will also address the mathematical foundations of modelling dynamic systems, with potential applications ranging from improved weather prediction to financial forecasting and supply chain optimisation.

Leaders from both MIT and IBM describe the lab as a platform for shaping the next generation of computing systems through integrated advances in AI and quantum technologies.

Why does it matter?

The launch of the MIT-IBM Computing Research Lab signals a broader shift in how foundational computing breakthroughs are now being shaped through close academic–industry collaboration.

As AI and quantum computing converge, the boundaries of what machines can model, predict, and optimise are being fundamentally redefined.

From a wider perspective, these developments could reshape entire sectors, including healthcare, finance, climate science, and global logistics, by enabling faster and more accurate problem-solving at scales that classical systems cannot handle.

The direction of this research also matters for technological sovereignty, as countries and institutions compete to lead in next-generation computing capabilities that will underpin future economic and scientific power.

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Experts warn of potential quantum disruption to blockchain security

A survey by the Global Risk Institute has highlighted growing concern that quantum computing could undermine the cryptographic foundations of cryptocurrencies within the next decade.

Experts estimate a 28% to 49% probability that quantum machines capable of breaking current encryption standards could emerge within 10 years, with the probability rising further over a 15-year horizon.

Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin rely on public-key cryptography to secure transactions and verify ownership. Advanced quantum algorithms could reverse-engineer private keys from public data, exposing wallets and weakening blockchain security.

The risk is seen as particularly relevant for long-term stored assets and static addresses. Industry researchers and technology firms are already exploring post-quantum cryptography to mitigate potential disruption.

Efforts led by standards bodies such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology focus on developing encryption methods resistant to both classical and quantum attacks, although full migration across decentralised systems remains complex.

The findings place quantum readiness alongside broader digital security priorities, as financial systems, communications networks, and public infrastructure share similar cryptographic dependencies.

The evolving timeline is prompting early-stage preparation across the cryptocurrency ecosystem, where system upgrades must balance security, decentralisation, and continuity.

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New quantum threat could weaken cryptocurrency encryption systems

A new warning from Google says advances in quantum computing could weaken widely used cryptographic systems protecting cryptocurrencies and digital infrastructure. A new whitepaper suggests future quantum machines may need fewer resources than previously estimated to break elliptic curve cryptography.

The research focuses on the elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem, which underpins much of today’s blockchain security. Findings suggest quantum algorithms like Shor’s could run with fewer qubits and gates, increasing concerns about cryptographic resilience.

To address the risk, the paper recommends a transition to post-quantum cryptography, which is designed to resist quantum attacks. It also outlines short-term blockchain measures, including avoiding reuse of vulnerable wallet addresses and preparing digital asset migration strategies.

Google also introduced a responsible disclosure approach using zero-knowledge proofs to communicate vulnerabilities without exposing exploitable details.

The company says this balances transparency and security, supporting coordinated efforts across crypto and research communities to prepare for quantum threats.

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Google expands into neutral atom quantum computing

Google Quantum AI is broadening its quantum computing research to include neutral atom technology alongside its established superconducting qubits. Neutral atoms offer high connectivity and flexibility, while superconducting qubits provide fast cycles and deep circuit performance.

By pursuing both approaches, Google aims to accelerate progress and deliver versatile platforms for different computational challenges.

The neutral atom programme is focused on three pillars: quantum error correction adapted for atom arrays, modelling and simulation of hardware architectures, and experimental hardware development to manipulate atomic qubits at scale.

The initiative is led by Dr Adam Kaufman, who joins Google from CU Boulder, bringing expertise in atomic, molecular, and optical physics to advance neutral atom hardware.

Google is leveraging the Boulder quantum ecosystem, collaborating with institutions such as JILA, CU Boulder, NIST, and QuEra to strengthen research and innovation. These partnerships give access to top talent, facilities, and federal programmes, strengthening the US role in global quantum research.

By combining superconducting and neutral-atom approaches, Google aims to address critical physics and engineering challenges on the path to large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers, with commercial relevance expected by the end of the decade.

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Quantum readiness as a strategic priority for firms

Businesses are beginning to prepare for the commercial potential of quantum computing, a technology that leverages quantum mechanics to solve problems beyond the capabilities of classical computers.

Early engagement focuses on awareness, training, and workshops to explore possible applications across sectors such as pharmaceuticals, energy, finance, and advanced materials.

Companies face several barriers to readiness, including limited technological maturity, unclear business implications, high costs for access and staff training, and a shortage of talent with both quantum and industry expertise.

These obstacles mean that most readiness initiatives remain concentrated in large, research-intensive firms, leaving smaller companies at risk of falling behind.

Support mechanisms are helping firms navigate these challenges. Networking, advisory services, technology centres, R&D grants, and stakeholder consultations help firms access resources and partnerships to accelerate readiness and link research with commercial use.

Building quantum readiness will require ongoing investment in skills, infrastructure, and partnerships, alongside policies that combine exploratory pilots with long-term workforce and software support.

Hybrid approaches integrating quantum computing with AI and high-performance computing offer practical entry points for early adoption, strengthening competitiveness and innovation across industries.

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Telefónica Tech moves to combine AI and quantum computing

Telefónica Tech has partnered with three European firms to bring AI and quantum computing closer together. The collaboration aims to improve how advanced models are developed and deployed across different environments.

The initiative brings together Qilimanjaro Quantum Tech, Multiverse Computing and Qcentroid. Their combined expertise is expected to support more efficient, compact and locally deployable AI systems.

Quantum computing is seen as a way to reduce the heavy processing demands of large AI models. Faster computation could yield more accurate results while reducing the time required to solve complex problems.

Each partner contributes specialised capabilities, from quantum hardware and algorithms to software platforms and orchestration tools. These technologies could support applications such as simulations, edge AI and rapid prototyping.

Telefónica Tech is also strengthening its role in integrating AI and quantum solutions for enterprise clients. The move reflects a broader push to build scalable, sovereign and next-generation digital infrastructure in Europe.

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Bitcoin moves closer to quantum resistance with BIP-360

BTQ Technologies has deployed Bitcoin Improvement Proposal BIP-360 on its Bitcoin Quantum Testnet v0.3.0, marking the first live test of the proposal. The upgrade introduces a quantum-resistant transaction model, Pay-to-Merkle-Root, designed to strengthen Bitcoin’s long-term security.

BIP-360 focuses on mitigating a vulnerability linked to Taproot’s key-path spending mechanism, which can expose public keys on-chain. Such exposure may become a risk if future quantum computers are capable of exploiting cryptographic weaknesses using advanced algorithms.

The testnet adds new consensus rules, post-quantum signatures, and full transaction lifecycle testing. Faster one-minute block times and adjusted fee structures have been introduced to accommodate larger and more complex signatures.

Growing global attention on quantum threats adds urgency to the development. US, EU, and Canadian authorities are setting timelines for post-quantum cryptography to protect future system security.

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