Key Takeaways
Finland strengthens its quantum computing presence with a 20-qubit device, laying the foundation for more powerful quantum computers.
Advances in integration and packaging methods enhance qubit placement and performance in the new 20-qubit quantum computer.
Funding boosts Finland’s journey towards 300-qubit quantum advantage.
VTT and IQM Quantum Computers have unveiled Finland’s second quantum computer with 20 qubits. This development marks a significant step in Finland’s commitment to quantum computing, following the creation of a 5-qubit quantum computer in 2021.
Finland’s previous commitment to quantum computing, announced in 2020, involved a government budget of EUR 70 million to expand quantum computing capabilities to 300 qubits by 2024.
Antti Vasara, VTT’s President and CEO, emphasized their ambitious goals, starting with a 5-qubit quantum computer and now achieving a 20-qubit version. Their next target is a 50-qubit quantum computer.
"We are proud of this moment. It is a pivotal achievement in our journey for our team, Finland, and the European quantum ecosystem. This is not just a testament to working with partners in the ecosystem, but also to our technological capabilities. The launch of the 20-qubit quantum computer represents a significant step, and we are now on track for the development of the next generation of processors with 54 qubits and more for customers. As IQM is a European quantum leader contributing to the strategic European agenda, we will continue to promote collaboration and engage various stakeholders to drive more investments in supporting the ecosystem in scaling up and becoming more competitive."
The collaboration between VTT and IQM has led to significant technological advancements, making quantum computers more scalable and capable of solving complex problems faster.
Pekka Pursula, VTT’s Research Manager, detailed key improvements, such as enhanced integration methods, more qubits on a single silicon chip, and the ability to conduct signals at extremely low temperatures.
The new 20-qubit quantum computer is located at VTT’s Micronova facility, the national research infrastructure for micro and nanotechnology in Finland, alongside the country’s first 5-qubit quantum computer. This marks a significant achievement in Finland’s quantum computing expertise.
