New-generation quantum computer switched on

HEFEI — Origin Wukong, China's independently developed third-generation superconducting quantum computer, was put into operation on Saturday at Origin Quantum Computing Technology (Hefei) in Anhui province.

The quantum computer is powered by Wukong, a 72-qubit indigenous superconducting quantum chip. It is China's latest and most advanced programmable and deliverable superconducting quantum computer, according to researchers.

Kong Weicheng, deputy director of the Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center, noted that the computer is integrated with the third-generation quantum computing control system, which enhances the overall operational efficiency of the quantum computer.

Jia Zhilong, deputy director of the Anhui Quantum Computing Engineering Research Center's Quantum Computing Chip Provincial Key Laboratory, said the Wukong chip has 198 qubits, comprising 72 computational qubits and 126 coupler qubits.

A qubit is the basic unit of quantum information, similar to a binary bit but realized in a two-state device.

Wukong's name was inspired by Sun Wukong, a mythical Chinese figure with the ability to transform into 72 different forms, symbolizing the computer's powerful and versatile capabilities.

Xinhua