In the continuously evolving world of quantum computing, a fresh breakthrough has been unveiled: the world's first quantum computer with over 1,000 qubits, developed by the startup Atom Computing.

A Quantum Breakthrough:

Atom Computing recently announced its 1,180-qubit quantum computer, a significant step up from their earlier model which had just 100 qubits. Slated to become available for customers following comprehensive testing next year, this development is not just about quantum capacity. Not all of its 1,180 qubits can be actively employed for calculations; however, its primary purpose is to act as an instrument for quantum error correction.

The Atom Advantage:

Unlike many competitors that use ions, Atom Computing leverages neutral atoms to carry quantum information. Using laser beams, they craft spots to attract atoms, where they remain stationed until displaced by gas molecules. The position of these atoms, determined by laser configurations, enables individual atom manipulation. Importantly, the quantum data is stored within the atom's nucleus spin, which offers a degree of protection from environmental influences. This method allows neutral atoms to maintain their state for extended periods, often tens of seconds, significantly longer than other qubit types.

Furthermore, the ability to densely arrange these atoms offers an advantage. As they don't interact unless externally manipulated, a dense packing is possible, leading to rapid system scaling. Atom Computing transitioned from a 10×10 atom structure in 2021 to a denser 35×35 lattice, ramping up potential atom numbers to 1,225. Although current testing involves 1,180 atoms, it remains the largest publicly disclosed quantum machine.

Machine Specifications and Capabilities:

Housed inside a 3.6 x 1.5-meter box, this quantum computer includes lasers, optics, a vacuum mechanism, and open space. The system can operate for nearly 100 seconds before atomic collisions within the vacuum chamber necessitate a halt and system reconfiguration. Despite boasting over 1,000 qubits, not all can be simultaneously used for calculations due to potential error rates. Yet, the future is bright, as third-party firms might devise algorithms for enhanced results or blueprinting more advanced quantum computers.

Primarily, this machine's mission is quantum error correction. Most correction techniques spread a single logical qubit across multiple hardware qubits, demanding a sizable number. Atom Computing has showcased lossless atom measurements during calculations, a critical error correction operation.

Looking to the horizon, the company's CTO, Ben Bloom, stated, "Our aim is to develop a system housing a meaningful quantum number," foreseeing systems with hundreds of thousands to millions of qubits. Bloom expressed that while transitioning from 100 to 1,000 qubits posed significant challenges, moving to 10,000 or 100,000 qubits seems more feasible.

A Comparative Note:

For context, China's University of Science and Technology recently spotlighted a photonic quantum computer breakthrough. It solved an intricate mathematical challenge in a fraction of a second, a task that would've taken the state-of-the-art supercomputer, the American Frontier, over 20 billion years.

In Conclusion:

Quantum computing is on the brink of transformative advances, with startups like Atom Computing leading the charge. Their 1,180-qubit quantum computer not only epitomizes the rapid pace of innovation but also underscores the infinite potential awaiting discovery in the quantum realm.