China’s Jiuzhang 4.0 Achieves Quantum Advantage With Light-Based Computing Introduction A Chinese quantum computer has once again claimed the mantle of quantum advantage—the point at which a quantum system performs a calculation no classical supercomputer could feasibly replicate. Jiuzhang 4.0, developed at the University of Science and Technology of China, completed a photonic calculation in microseconds that experts estimate would take longer than trillions of times the age of the universe on today’s most powerful classical machines. Key Details • The Breakthrough • Jiuzhang 4.0 is a photonic quantum computer, using particles of light to process information. • Task performed: Gaussian boson sampling (GBS), where photons are sent through a maze of mirrors and beam splitters, then measured. • Previous GBS benchmarks used <300 photons—Jiuzhang 4.0 scaled far beyond, cementing its claim to quantum advantage. • Why It’s Impressive • The system solved its calculation in ~20 microseconds. • Equivalent classical computation: longer than the universe has existed, multiplied by trillions of trillions of years. • Reinforces China’s leadership in experimental photonic quantum computing. • But Does It Matter? • GBS has no immediate commercial application—it’s more a proof of capability than a practical tool. • Current quantum advantage demonstrations often solve esoteric problems rather than real-world ones. • Practical breakthroughs require error correction, scalability, and hybrid integration with classical systems. • Path to Practical Quantum Computing • Researchers emphasize this milestone is about testing boundaries. • The real challenge remains: building fault-tolerant quantum computers that can tackle chemistry, logistics, cryptography, and AI problems. • Jiuzhang 4.0’s achievement demonstrates raw power, but engineering maturity is still years away. Why It Matters The feat underscores rapid progress in global quantum research, proving that quantum systems can vastly outstrip classical machines in certain calculations. While not yet directly useful, these demonstrations are crucial stepping stones toward practical quantum computers. As nations race to scale quantum technology, Jiuzhang 4.0 is both a scientific triumph and a strategic signal: the era of quantum capability is no longer theoretical—it’s here, even if its practical utility is still unfolding. I’ve had the privilege of reaching over 17 million views in the past year, sharing daily insights with a network of 26,000+ followers and 9,000+ professional contacts across defense, technology, and policy. If this topic resonates, I welcome you to connect and continue the conversation. Keith King https://lnkd.in/gHPvUttw
Photonics is the way of the future.
I mean, there are use cases for turing uncomplete machines
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1moJiuzhang 4.0's achievement of quantum advantage marks a significant milestone in the evolution of quantum computing, showcasing the potential of light-based systems to outperform classical supercomputers in specific tasks. While the Gaussian boson sampling it performed is more a demonstration of capability than a practical application, it highlights the rapid advancements in quantum research and China's leadership in this field. However, the journey toward practical quantum computing remains complex, requiring breakthroughs in error correction and integration with classical systems. This development serves as both a scientific triumph and a strategic indicator that the era of quantum capability is upon us, even as we await its real-world applications.