YOKOHAMA National University signed a joint research agreement with Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, Quantinuum K.K., Keio University, SoftBank Corp., Mitsui & Co., Ltd., and LQUOM, Inc. Their collaboration aims to enable deployable and scalable quantum information processing by achieving and demonstrating the connection of multiple quantum devices in a practical environment.
Quantum technology is expected to significantly transform information processing in areas such as computing, communication and measurement, which serve as the foundation for scientific and technological advancement. In particular, within the field of computing, it is anticipated that practical quantum computers will emerge in the near future, coexisting with conventional classical computers and heralding their commercial utilization. However, even with the advent of such devices, a single computer will have limited processing capacity and may encounter service disruptions due to malfunctions or maintenance issues. Thus, the ability to connect multiple devices to enhance processing capabilities and enable flexible operation and management is required. Additionally, photons—elementary particles of light—are employed for the transmission of quantum information; these are frequently lost over long-distance connections, an issue which quantum repeating technology is capable of addressing.
The joint research that will result from this collaboration will focus on scalable quantum information processing technologies, including the interconnection of multiple quantum computers. The necessary steps towards the maturation of the technology are intra-site connections, connections between neighboring cities, and a worldwide quantum internet. The research will concentrate on realizing the first two of these.
To connect multiple quantum computers located some distance from each other, it is necessary to distribute pairs of photons in a quantum entangled state, a phenomenon where particles form a strong bond, and share this entanglement between the quantum computers.
As part of their joint research, the organizations will develop:
Leveraging their individual strengths, the participating organizations will demonstrate the connection of multiple quantum computers and strive to enhance technical readiness levels. Regarding connections between cities, it is necessary to evaluate these within a practical network environment, and the advanced technological knowledge of local universities and startups will be crucial; the organizations will accordingly collaborate with Kawasaki City, Yokohama City, and Kanagawa Prefecture.
This joint research is expected to contribute to the realization of virtual large-scale quantum computing, the efficient and stable operation of quantum computers through the sharing and virtualization of computational capabilities, and the establishment of a comprehensive quantum information infrastructure that facilitates the smooth and secure transfer of measurement data to quantum computers for processing. Additionally, it will help enhance the industry-academia-government ecosystem.
Primary Responsibilities and Distinctive Characteristics of the Seven Organizations
Exploring quantum technology applications and creating related markets to meet a wide range of customer needs. Strategic partnership with Quantinuum since 2022.
Future Development
The organizations will conduct their research at the Kawasaki Business Incubation Center in the Shin-Kawasaki Sozo no Mori area of Kawasaki City in Kanagawa Prefecture, aiming to realize the practical application of scalable quantum information processing. They will seek to collaborate with the city’s “Quantum Innovation Park” concept, aiming to establish a field network environment by around 2030 and subsequently demonstrate the interconnection of multiple quantum devices.
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YOKOHAMA National University (YNU) is a leading research university dedicated to academic excellence and global collaboration. Its faculties and research institutes lead efforts in pioneering new academic fields, advancing research in artificial intelligence, robotics, quantum information, semiconductor innovation, energy, biotechnology, ecosystems, and smart city development. Through interdisciplinary research and international partnerships, YNU drives innovation and contributes to global societal advancement.