Advertisement
Microsoft has announced a strategic co-innovation collaboration with Photonic, a pioneer in building scalable, fault-tolerant, and distributed quantum technologies. The collaboration aims to unlock the next frontiers in quantum networking, paving the way for reliable quantum communications over extended distances. This partnership also opens avenues for accessing Photonic’s quantum computing capabilities through Microsoft Azure Quantum Elements, signifying a significant step towards a new era of quantum networking.
Key Collaborative Objectives:
1. Quantum Networking Advancements: Microsoft and Photonic will work together to develop an integrated roadmap encompassing technologies and products that facilitate robust quantum communications over long distances.
2. Azure Quantum Integration: Photonic’s quantum computing offerings will be integrated into Microsoft Azure Quantum Elements, enabling users to harness Photonic’s quantum hardware within the Azure Quantum ecosystem.
3. Acceleration of Quantum Innovation: The collaboration seeks to expedite the pursuit of quantum at scale by leveraging Microsoft’s global infrastructure, established platforms, and the extensive scale of Microsoft Azure.
Microsoft’s Quantum Supercomputing Ecosystem:
Microsoft is actively engaged in constructing a fault-tolerant quantum supercomputing ecosystem at scale on Azure, aiming to propel scientific exploration. The company had previously outlined its roadmap to achieve a Level 3 quantum supercomputer, emphasizing its commitment to advancing quantum computing capabilities.
Photonic’s Quantum Architecture:
Photonic has assembled one of the world’s largest teams of quantum silicon experts and has secured $140 million in funding to date. The company employs a unique quantum architecture based on photonically linked silicon spin qubits. This approach addresses challenges faced by other quantum platforms, and its use of photon interfaces allows communication using ultralow-loss standard telecom equipment and wavelengths.
Vision Beyond Quantum Computing:
The collaboration between Microsoft and Photonic extends beyond quantum computing, envisioning the exploration of new capabilities in networking and sensing. The collaborative efforts aim to unlock applications and scientific discoveries at scale across diverse fields such as chemistry, materials science, metrology, and communications.
Quotes from Leadership:
– Dr. Stephanie Simmons, Founder and Chief Quantum Officer of Photonic, and Co-chair of Canada’s National Quantum Strategy Advisory Board, emphasized that Microsoft is the ideal partner for Photonic, offering global infrastructure and proven platforms that align with Photonic’s pursuit of quantum at scale.
– Dennis Tom, General Manager of Azure Quantum at Microsoft, highlighted the commitment to integrating Photonic’s quantum hardware into Azure Quantum Elements, contributing to foundational quantum computing and progressing towards higher levels of resilience and scale on the path to quantum supercomputing.
– Jason Zander, Executive Vice President of Strategic Missions and Technologies at Microsoft, expressed enthusiasm about joining forces with Photonic, emphasizing the potential to unlock new capabilities across the quantum ecosystem, extending beyond computing into areas like networking and sensing.
The collaboration between Microsoft and Photonic marks a significant stride in the evolution of quantum technologies, holding the promise of accelerated innovation and widespread impact across various scientific and technological domains.