QuEra Computing Inc. founded in 2018 and headquartered in the Greater Boston Area, New England, has the vision to lead the quantum computing market by providing a publicly accessible neutral-atom computer, robust software solutions, and leveraging a skilled team to deliver value currently and in the future.
Many of the world's significant challenges are currently unsolvable due to computing limitations. These issues include complex optimization problems, quantum physics simulations, data encryption analysis, advanced artificial intelligence development, and intricate research in materials science and pharmaceuticals. Quantum computing has the potential to unlock solutions to these problems by offering unprecedented computational capabilities.
Quera is developing a full-scale quantum computing system that utilizes the Neutral-Atom approach for qubit generation. Their focus is on enhancing qubit resilience against noise through advanced error correction methods, enabling the system to tackle complex problems that current computing power cannot solve.
Quera’s aim is to continue innovating with a roadmap that includes error-corrected computers based on significant discoveries, indicating a path toward a more promising future in quantum computing.
Product Overview
QuEra’s unique approach leverages neutral Rubidium atoms as qubits, offering a highly efficient and scalable quantum computing platform. The following evaluation aims to clearly cover the technical strengths, scalability, and potential of QuEra’s quantum computing system:
Technology Overview
Quantum computing is an evolving field with several approaches to creating qubits, the fundamental units of quantum information. Common approaches include photonics, cold atoms, topological qubits, and superconducting circuits.
Each method has unique advantages and challenges:
Photonics: Uses particles of light to carry quantum information. Advantages include high-speed data transfer and robustness to thermal noise, but challenges include difficulties in creating and controlling photon-based qubits.
Cold Atoms: This technique utilizes ultra-cold atoms trapped in optical lattices. It offers excellent coherence times and scalability but requires complex cooling and trapping mechanisms.
Topological Qubits: Employs exotic particles that are resistant to local perturbations, providing inherent error correction. This method is theoretically robust but has yet to be practically realized.
Superconducting Circuits: Superconducting materials are used to create qubits with fast operation times and integration with classical electronics. However, they suffer from relatively short coherence times and complex fabrication processes.
Amid these diverse approaches, QuEra has chosen neutral atoms, specifically Rubidium (Rb) atoms, for their qubits.
This article outlines why neutral atoms present a compelling solution for quantum computing and details QuEra’s innovative architecture.
Quantum Architecture
Nature's Perfect Qubits: Atoms are inherently perfect qubits, being identical to one another and capable of storing and processing quantum information with high uniformity. This natural perfection provides an advantage over manufactured qubits, which can suffer from imperfections.
Qubits Made of Neutral Atoms: QuEra’s qubits are formed from neutral Rubidium atoms. Neutrality is achieved when the atom’s positive and negative charges balance each other. By exciting these atoms with lasers, QuEra can manipulate their energy levels to store quantum information. The energy states of the atoms represent the binary states ‘0’ and ‘1’, forming the basic units of quantum information.
Laser Control Mechanisms: QuEra employs lasers as optical tweezers to trap and cool individual atoms to near absolute zero temperatures. This cooling minimizes atomic movement, allowing for precise manipulation of discrete energy levels and resulting in long coherence times exceeding one second. Such control is critical for maintaining the integrity of quantum information.
Error Resiliency via Rydberg States: QuEra enhances error resilience by utilizing Rydberg states. When atoms are excited to high-energy Rydberg states, their electron clouds expand significantly, enabling long-distance interactions. This expansion facilitates quantum information transfer and entanglement, key ingredients for robust quantum information manipulation.
Rydberg Interaction Mechanism: The interaction between Rydberg atoms is governed by the van der Waals interaction, which originates from the strong dipole moments of the expanded atoms. This interaction diminishes with the sixth power of the interatomic distance, ensuring intense interaction only at close proximities. The Rydberg blockade effect, which prevents two adjacent atoms from being excited simultaneously, enables efficient implementation of conditional quantum logic and two-qubit gates.
High-Quality Multi-Qubit Gates: QuEra’s use of Rydberg interactions minimizes gate- gate-decomposition overhead, reducing errors and enhancing processing speed. The substantial size of Rydberg atoms allows for the interaction of multiple nearby qubits, facilitating the development of multi-qubit gates essential for complex quantum algorithms such as the Toffoli gate.
Compact and Scalable Architecture: QuEra’s architecture is compact, allowing the control systems and atoms to fit within a standard room. Tens of thousands of laser-trapped atoms can be densely packed into an area smaller than a square millimeter. Acousto-optic deflectors enable precise control over multiple qubits with minimal laser usage.
Field Programmable Qubit Arrays (FPQA™): QuEra’s FPQA™ allows for flexible and reconfigurable qubit arrangements. This capability optimizes algorithm design by limiting gate overhead, leading to efficient circuits and shorter development cycles. New configurations can be implemented without hardware reassembly, providing significant flexibility and adaptability.
Qubit Shuttling: QuEra’s qubit shuttling technology enables coherent movement of atoms during calculations, enhancing connectivity and error correction. This feature supports efficient memory bus services and zoned architectures for memory and processing, positioning QuEra’s quantum computers as a leading architecture for scalability and utility.
Computing Model
Aquila operates on an Analog Hamiltonian Simulation (AHS) model, which differs significantly from the digital, gate-based quantum computing approach. AHS allows Aquila to simulate the natural evolution of quantum systems over time directly without the need for quantum gates. This method is particularly suited for studying systems where quantum interactions play a fundamental role, such as in condensed matter physics.
Dual Computation Modes: Digital and Analog - QuEra supports both digital and analog computation modes, providing versatile problem-solving capabilities.
Digital Mode: The digital gate-based mode decomposes complex operations into elementary steps that operate on one or two qubits at a time. This mode offers universal functionality and programmability with a small set of operations, facilitating complex quantum computations.
Analog Mode: Analog quantum operations involve continuous state transitions described by a Hamiltonian function. This mode can bypass gate-based computations, leading directly to solutions without decomposing algorithms into steps. It avoids many noise and coherence issues typical of digital modes.
Post-Classical Compute Power: QuEra’s 256-qubit machine demonstrates robustness to errors and efficient control mechanisms, enabling it to handle a range of practical problems beyond the capabilities of classical supercomputers. This machine operates in an unsuitable simulation regime, showcasing QuEra’s advanced quantum computing potential.
Accessibility and Integration
Cloud Accessibility: Available on Amazon Braket, Aquila benefits from the robust AWS cloud infrastructure, providing users worldwide with easy access to quantum computing capabilities without the need for physical quantum hardware.
User Interface and Tools: Developers can use the Amazon Braket SDK to write and test their quantum algorithms directly on Aquila, integrating classical and quantum code to optimize performance and results.
Future Roadmap and Innovations
Error-Correction Capabilities: Starting in 2024, QuEra plans to implement quantum error correction protocols. This development aims to significantly reduce the impact of errors in quantum calculations, thereby enhancing the reliability and accuracy of the computations. The roadmap includes the introduction of systems with increasing numbers of logical, error-corrected qubits, reaching up to 100 by 2026.
Enhanced Computational Models: Beyond AHS, QuEra is working towards integrating digital quantum computing capabilities, which will expand the range of problems Aquila can address and improve the efficiency of solutions.
Competitive Advantage
Specialization in Neutral-Atom Technology: Aquila's use of neutral atoms offers a unique set of advantages over other quantum systems, including potentially lower error rates and higher qubit coherence times.
Scalability: Aquila’s architecture's scalability is facilitated by the relatively straightforward integration of additional atoms (qubits) into its system, promising a clear path toward more extensive and complex quantum networks.
Product Conclusion
The Aquila quantum processor from QuEra Computing represents a cutting-edge approach in the field of quantum computing. Its innovative use of neutral atoms, combined with a flexible and scalable architecture, positions it uniquely in the market.
As QuEra continues to develop and enhance its quantum error correction techniques and integrates more advanced computational models, Aquila is poised to play a pivotal role in advancing quantum computing from experimental to practical, real-world applications. This level of innovation and development signals substantial potential for transformative impacts across multiple sectors, including material science, pharmaceuticals, and complex system optimization.
GO-TO-MARKET (GTM)
QuEra's GTM strategy is multifaceted and designed to address diverse customer needs across various sectors.
It can be categorized into three main components:
Quantum-as-a-service (QaaS)
Quantum Computing Hardware (QCH) for High-Performance Computing (HPC) centers and government entities
Bespoke Algorithm development
Quantum-as-a-service (QaaS)
Premium cloud access: QuEra provides cloud-based access to its 256-qubit quantum computer, Aquila, via platforms like Amazon Braket. Aquila, the first and only publicly accessible neutral atom computer, is based on programmable arrays of neutral Rubidium atoms trapped in a vacuum by tightly focused laser beams. This QaaS offering allows users to remotely access QuEra's powerful quantum computing resources to perform complex computations and experiments without needing to own the hardware.
Key Benefits:
Exclusive Machine Time Access: Premium access members receive dedicated machine time for their computational tasks.
Support from Scientific Team: Users benefit from direct support from QuEra’s team of experts.
Advanced Features Access: Early access to new features and technologies.
Service Level Agreement (SLA): Ensures reliable and high-quality service.
Instructor-led Training: Training programs to enhance user expertise in quantum computing.
Regular Office Hours: Ongoing support and guidance from QuEra’s team.
Consulting Options: Tailored consulting and solution development to meet specific user needs.
Fixed-Cost Contracts: Flexible contract terms to suit various project requirements.
Quantum Computing Hardware (QCH) for HPC Centers and Governments
QuEra’s Gemini-class systems are designed for deployment in high-performance computing (HPC) centers and government facilities. These on-premises quantum computers cater to diverse customers, including national quantum programs and corporations with high-sensitivity HPC computing requirements. The Gemini-class systems integrate both analog quantum mode and digital gate-based mode, offering high-level performance and programming universality.
Key Specifications:
256 Neutral-Atom Qubits: Made of Rubidium atoms.
Dual-Mode Operation: Combines analog and digital gate-based operations.
FPQA™ Architecture: Allows for flexible qubit encoding.
High Fidelity: At least 99% fidelity for single and two-qubit gates.
Error Rates: SPAM errors below 1.5%.
High-Speed Operations: Gate speeds of 4 MHz for globally addressed Rydberg transitions.
Deployment Options:
On-Premises Deployment: Physical installation at the customer’s facility.
Remote Access: Similar system access is available for remote operations.
Technology Readiness Level:
Analog Component: TRL 9, available on Amazon Braket since November 2022.
Gate-Based Component: TRL 7, tested and validated at QuEra in 2023.
Bespoke Algorithm Development
QuEra offers QaaS for developing and optimizing quantum algorithms tailored to specific customer needs. This service allows customers to collaborate with QuEra's team of experts to craft optimal solutions, leveraging QuEra’s state-of-the-art quantum computing capabilities.
Competitive Landscape
Competitors of QuEra Computing in Neutral Atom Quantum Computing
In discussing QuEra Computing's primary competitors, it's essential to focus on companies developing neutral atom quantum computers.
These include PASQAL, Atom Computing, and ColdQuanta.
PASQAL, founded in 2019, utilizes 2D and 3D atomic arrays for programmable quantum computers.
Atom Computing, established in 2018, focuses on scalable neutral atom quantum computers using nuclear-spin qubits.
ColdQuanta, founded in 2007, develops cold atom quantum computers, sensors, and networks.
These companies are distinct from IBM, Google, or PsiQuantum, which use different hardware methodologies.
Pasqal
Founded in 2019 in France, PASQAL develops programmable quantum simulators and computers using 2D and 3D atomic arrays. They leverage neutral atoms trapped in optical tweezers to achieve scalability and leverage decades of advancements in physics.
PASQAL utilizes lasers, vacuum technology, electronic controls, and software to make individual atoms accessible to quantum programmers.
In January 2022, PASQAL merged with Qu&Co to enhance their solutions.
Atom Computing
Established in 2018 in Berkeley, California, Atom Computing focuses on creating scalable and reliable neutral atom quantum computers using nuclear-spin qubits. Their platform ensures stability and accurate error correction, which is crucial for solving complex problems.
Founded by Benjamin Bloom and Jonathan King, Atom Computing raised $5 million in seed funding.
Infleqtion
Founded in 2007, Infleqtion (former ColdQuanta) is a global quantum technology company based in Boulder, Colorado, with additional offices in Madison and Oxford. It develops cold atom quantum computers, sensors, and networks. Its adaptable cold atom method is used by organizations worldwide and has applications in various quantum domains. NASA deploys Infleqtion technology on the International Space Station.
Market Size
Based on McKinsey & Company Quantum Technology Monitor, April 2024
The market size that will be discussed in this section refers to the market size of quantum technologies infrastructure, hardware, software, and services. This encompasses the entire tech stack for quantum technologies (QT), including physical components, assembled hardware, embedded and application software, & networking (cloud infrastructure, for example).
The value at stake, which will be discussed, represents the economic value derived from the impact of quantum technologies on non-QT industries along the entire value chain.
Key industries affected include:
Finance
Pharmaceuticals
Energy and materials
Example value chain components:
Material design (e.g., simulation)
Manufacturing (e.g., process optimization)
Overall Market Size Projection
The total internal market size for quantum technologies is estimated to reach $173 billion by 2040:
By 2035:
Quantum computing: $28 billion (conservative) to $72 billion (optimistic)
Quantum communication: $11 billion (conservative) to $15 billion (optimistic)
Quantum sensing: $0.5 billion (conservative) to $2.7 billion (optimistic)
By 2040:
Quantum computing: $45 billion (conservative) to $131 billion (optimistic)
Quantum communication: $24 billion (conservative) to $36 billion (optimistic)
Quantum sensing: $1 billion (conservative) to $6 billion (optimistic)
Quantum Computing Market Growth
The quantum computing market is expected to reach:
$28 billion to $72 billion by 2035
$45 billion to $131 billion by 2040
Economic Value and Industry Impact
Quantum computing (QC) presents a significant economic opportunity, estimated at $1 trillion to $2 trillion. This rapid acceleration is expected in the next five to ten years across various industries.
Key Segments (Value at Stake By Segment, 2035)
Financial Industry: Financial services - ($400-600B)
Global energy & materials: Oil and gas, sustainable energy, chemicals - ($200-500B)
Travel, transport, & logistics: Travel, transport, and logistics- ($200-500B)
Pharmaceuticals & medical products: Pharmaceuticals - ($200-500B)
Advanced industries: Automotive, aerospace and defense, advanced electronics, semiconductors - ($70-400B)
Telecommunications, media, & technology: Telecommunications, media - ($50-100B)
Total Value at Stake
The total value at stake with the incremental impact of QC by 2035 is estimated to be between $900 billion and $2 trillion.
Resources:
4 Leading Neutral Atom Quantum Computing Companies - The Quantum Insider, February 22, 2022.
Steady Progress in Approaching the Quantum Advantage - McKinsey & Company.
Quantum Technology Monitor, April 2024 - McKinsey & Company.
QuEra Computing Official Website - QuEra Computing.
Quantum Computing - IBM.
What is Quantum Computing? - Google Quantum AI.
Deloitte Reports on Quantum Computing
BCG Reports on Quantum Computing - Boston Consulting Group (BCG).