IBM has introduced its most advanced quantum computing processor, the 1,121-qubit "Condor." The company's updated roadmap outlines its quantum computing endeavors, emphasizing the focus on error correction and fault tolerance. The industry anticipates significant progress in quantum capabilities, with IBM targeting the execution of 100 million gates over 200 qubits with the "Starling" processor in 2029. The roadmap also envisions the "Blue Jay" system executing 1 billion gates across 2,000 qubits by 2033. This article explores the features of the Condor quantum processor and IBM's strategic advancements in the quantum computing space.


IBM has unveiled its latest quantum computing processor, the "Condor," featuring an impressive 1,121 qubits. This milestone marks a significant advancement in the field of quantum computing, making the Condor the world's most advanced gate-based, superconducting quantum system. Alongside the introduction of the Condor processor, IBM has shared an updated roadmap that sheds light on the company's strategic initiatives in the quantum computing space.


The Condor quantum processor represents the culmination of IBM's previous endeavors, following the 433-qubit "Osprey" processor in 2022 and the 127-qubit "Eagle" processor in 2021. While the qubit count is indicative of potential capabilities, the current focus in the quantum computing industry revolves around error correction and fault tolerance.


According to Jay Gambetta, IBM Fellow and Vice President of Quantum Computing, the industry considers experiments with 100-qubit systems as the current standard. IBM's recent breakthrough allows the execution of quantum circuits with 100 qubits and 3,000 gates, marking a significant achievement in the field.


Looking ahead, IBM's roadmap outlines key milestones for the quantum computing landscape. In 2029, the company aims to reach an inflection point with the "Starling" processor, executing 100 million gates over 200 qubits. This advancement is expected to elevate quantum systems to computational tools capable of performing complex functions.


The trajectory continues with the "Blue Jay" system, projected to execute 1 billion gates across 2,000 qubits by 2033. These advancements underscore IBM's commitment to pushing the boundaries of quantum computing capabilities and achieving significant breakthroughs in error correction, fault tolerance, and computational power.


The introduction of the Condor quantum processor and the outlined roadmap signal a new era of possibilities in quantum computing. As IBM continues to innovate in this space, the industry anticipates transformative developments that could impact various sectors, including cryptography, optimization, and materials science. The quantum revolution is gaining momentum, and IBM is at the forefront of driving meaningful advancements in this cutting-edge field.


(TRISTAN GREENE, COINTELEGRAPH, 2023)