Fujitsu & RIKEN unveil 256-qubit quantum computer upgrade

Fujitsu and Japanese research institute RIKEN have developed a 256-qubit superconducting quantum computer, quadrupling the capacity of their previous 64-qubit system.

The new quantum computer, located at the RIKEN RQC-FUJITSU Collaboration Center, represents a significant increase in computational capabilities for complex modelling and data analysis. Built upon technology introduced in a 64-qubit system launched in October 2023 with support from the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, the 256-qubit upgrade employs high-density implementation techniques to enhance scalability and cooling efficiency.

The partners will integrate the new quantum computer into their hybrid quantum computing platform and will make it available to companies and research institutions worldwide, starting in the first quarter of fiscal 2025. This expanded platform is expected to support more sophisticated research in areas such as finance, drug discovery, and materials science.

The increase from 64 to 256 qubits enables users to address more demanding computational tasks. It expands possibilities for the analysis of larger molecules and advances the development and demonstration of quantum error correction algorithms, a foundational milestone for practical quantum computing.

A spokesperson from Fujitsu stated, "Fujitsu Limited and RIKEN today announced the development of a world-leading 256-qubit superconducting quantum computer, established at the RIKEN RQC-FUJITSU Collaboration Center. This new quantum computer builds upon the advanced technology of the 64-qubit iteration, launched with the support of the Japanese Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) in October 2023, and incorporates newly-developed high-density implementation techniques. This announcement marks another crucial step toward the practical application of superconducting quantum computers and unlocking their potential to grapple with some of the world's most complex issues."

Fujitsu and RIKEN are working to improve usability by enabling seamless collaboration between quantum and classical computers through their hybrid platform. The aim is to facilitate efficient execution of hybrid quantum-classical algorithms, providing researchers with greater flexibility and access to high-performance computing.

Technical advances reported include a scalable 3D connection structure, which allows for increasing the number of qubits without extensive redesigns. The architecture uses 4-qubit unit cells arranged in a three-dimensional configuration. This approach, carried over from the 64-qubit model, demonstrates its scalability with the new system.

The new machine also achieves quadrupled implementation density within the dilution refrigerator, which is necessary for cooling superconducting qubits. This optimisation means the 256-qubit system can operate within the same cooling unit as the previous 64-qubit machine. The company reports that the design carefully balances the heat generated by control circuits with the available cooling capacity, while maintaining ultra-high vacuum conditions and extremely low operating temperatures.

On the subject of future research and commercialisation, a Fujitsu spokesperson commented, "Fujitsu is committed to accelerating the practical application of quantum computers from both hardware and software perspectives. Through its platform for hybrid quantum computing, Fujitsu will provide larger-scale quantum computers to global companies and research institutions conducting joint research in various fields, including finance and drug discovery."

Both organisations have set their sights on developing a 1,000-qubit superconducting quantum computer, with installation at Fujitsu Technology Park planned for 2026. The two institutions will also extend the term of their collaboration at the RIKEN RQC-FUJITSU Collaboration Center from March 2025 to March 2029 to continue their long-term research and development on enabling larger quantum computers.

In addition to the ongoing research in Japan, this announcement has implications for Australia's quantum research ecosystem. Fujitsu has previously signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Australian National University in Canberra, signalling its ambition to collaborate on quantum capability building and advanced computing research.

The global availability of the 256-qubit system from early fiscal 2025 is expected to give research institutions and commercial users opportunities to participate in larger-scale quantum experiments and potential applications.

Fujitsu and RIKEN will continue their efforts towards enabling practical and scalable quantum computing solutions for industry and research communities worldwide.