IBM Canada and The Platform for Digital and Quantum Innovation of Québec (PINQ²) have joined forces to unveil Canada’s first IBM Quantum System One. This groundbreaking achievement marks a significant milestone in Quebec’s advancement in the field of quantum sciences.
The inauguration of the IBM Quantum System One signals Quebec’s emergence as a key player in the global quantum landscape. “The arrival of IBM’s quantum computer sends out a clear message: the work we are doing in our DistriQ innovation zone in Sherbrooke and Technum Québec in Bromont shows that Quebec has the talent and know-how to become one of the world leaders in quantum sciences,” stated Pierre Fitzgibbon, Quebec’s Minister of Economy, Innovation and Energy.
Under a five-year agreement, IBM Canada will manage and maintain the quantum system, while PINQ² will serve as the exclusive administrator. PINQ², a non-profit organization founded in 2020 by the Ministry of Economy, Innovation and Energy of Quebec and the University of Sherbrooke, will oversee the utilization and commercialization of the system.
The collaboration between IBM and PINQ² goes beyond the establishment of the quantum system. They will lead a quantum working group focused on leveraging quantum technology to address sustainability challenges. Founding members of the group, including Hydro Quebec and the University of Sherbrooke, will work together to develop solutions that harness the power of quantum computing.
Additionally, PINQ² will utilize the high-performance computing center at the Humano District in Sherbrooke to offer hybrid quantum computing services. This approach will allow businesses to explore the potential of digital and quantum technologies within their existing processes. By enabling a full range of hybrid quantum computing services, the initiative aims to drive innovation in sectors such as healthcare, energy, manufacturing, and sustainable development.
The collaboration also envisions the synergy between artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum technologies. By combining AI and quantum algorithms, researchers can work in parallel to tackle complex problems. Quantum algorithms can assist in training AI models, while AI can help identify the most suitable quantum algorithms for specific tasks. This symbiotic relationship between AI and quantum technologies opens up new avenues for accelerated discovery and problem-solving.
With Canada now among the top countries in the field of quantum sciences, the unveiling of the IBM Quantum System One is expected to attract international attention. The advanced capabilities of the system have the potential to revolutionize industries and address complex challenges ranging from cybersecurity to molecular simulations for new medications. This achievement not only positions Quebec as a global leader in quantum sciences but also lays the foundation for future collaborations and advancements in the field.
FAQ
What is PINQ²?
PINQ² stands for The Platform for Digital and Quantum Innovation of Québec. It is a non-profit organization founded to drive innovation and research in quantum sciences in Quebec. It was established in 2020 by the Ministry of Economy, Innovation and Energy of Quebec and the University of Sherbrooke.
What is the IBM Quantum System One?
The IBM Quantum System One is a quantum computer developed by IBM. It is the first quantum system of its kind in Canada and represents a significant milestone in the advancement of quantum sciences in the country.
What is the collaboration between IBM Canada and PINQ²?
IBM Canada and PINQ² have formed a partnership to establish and operate the IBM Quantum System One in Quebec. They will also lead a quantum working group focused on using quantum technology to address sustainability challenges. The collaboration aims to position Quebec as a world leader in quantum sciences and drive innovation in various industries.