Intel, the American tech juggernaut, this Tuesday, has made it to the headlines with the official announcement of its quarter-sized superconducting chip delivery for quantum computing to QuTech, its quantum research partner in Netherlands. Reportedly, this 17-qubit superconducting test chip fabricated by Intel features a unique design that guarantees enhanced performance and yield. The move depicts the American chipmaker’s tremendous progress in superconducting materials market, in addition to demonstrating its earnestness in exploiting the quantum computing space, say experts.
Building blocks of quantum computing algorithms – qubits, apparently, are rather fragile. The fragility quotient requires them to be operated amidst an extremely low temperature, almost at 20 millikelvins, which is 250 times more chilly than deep space. Subject to this unique composition, the packaging of these chips is extremely crucial to prevent any kind of data breaches, cite reliable sources. In addition to this, it has been also reported that Intel’s CR group (Component Research Group) in Oregon and ATTD team (Assembly Test and Technology Development) in Arizona are working on the chip model in terms of its packaging technology and design in order to address the challenges of quantum computing.
Allegedly, the two-year partnership between Intel and QuTech has allowed the former to strengthen its position in the superconducting materials market, especially with profound developments in quantum computing. In fact, citing expert opinions, this tie-up has pushed their quantum research to such a point where both the partners, Intel and QuTech, have been experiencing mutual benefits. While Intel is involved in the fabrication of new qubit test chips in its leading-edge manufacturing facilities, QuTech simulates quantum algorithm workloads.
Having held the reputation of one of the world’s most renowned chipmakers, Intel seems to rather keen to strengthen its foothold in superconducting materials industry, cite experts. Intel’s expertise in control electronics, fabrication, and architecture certainly sets the firm apart from its contemporaries. The company has also enhanced its portfolio – right from neuromorphic to quantum computing currently.