Researchers from KAUST and KACST have developed a quantum random number generator (QRNG) that is almost 1000 times faster than existing QRNGs. The device utilizes micro-LEDs and advanced post-processing algorithms and has passed randomness tests by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. The QRNG's portability and high generation rate will benefit industries such as health, finance, and defense. Why it matters: This advancement significantly strengthens data security capabilities in Saudi Arabia, aligning with Vision 2030 goals for technological leadership and innovation.
QRC has developed Qibo, a Python library enabling classical simulation of quantum algorithms with double precision. Qibo leverages hardware accelerators like GPUs and CPUs with multi-threading. It incorporates a multi-GPU distributed approach for circuit simulation. Why it matters: This framework allows researchers and developers in the region to explore and prototype quantum algorithms using existing classical computing infrastructure, fostering innovation in quantum computing research and applications.
Researchers at the Quantum Research Center's (QRC) Quantum Communications lab (QComms) achieved a milestone by demonstrating the violation of a Bell inequality using pairs of polarized entangled photons. This achievement serves as a "quantum health check" for their entangled photon source. The QRC team is working to harness entanglement effects in ultra-secure key distribution schemes to enhance secure communication. Why it matters: This advancement validates the application-readiness of QRC's quantum communication devices, paving the way for enhanced security in communication technologies within the region.
Communications Physics journal has a focus collection on space quantum communications. The collection covers supporting technologies, new quantum protocols, inter-satellite QKD, constellations of satellites, and quantum inspired technologies and protocols for space based communication. Contributions are welcome from October 20, 2020 to April 30, 2021, and accepted papers are published on a rolling basis. Why it matters: Space-based quantum communication is a critical area for developing secure, global quantum networks, and this collection could highlight relevant research for the GCC region as it invests in advanced technologies.
This article summarizes presentations from an internal Quantum Research Center (QRC) workshop at the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). Topics covered included superconducting quantum computers, quantum coherent networks, quantum simulation, and quantum machine learning. Several presentations also discussed experimental quantum technologies. Why it matters: The workshop highlights TII's ongoing research activities in quantum computing and related technologies, signaling its commitment to advancing the field in the UAE.
Dr. Giampiero Marchegiani from the Quantum Research Center (QRC) co-authored a paper in Nature Nanotechnology on bipolar thermoelectricity in Josephson junctions. The research demonstrates the generation of electrical current using heat, observing bipolar thermoelectricity where the device generates either positive or negative electrical signals without extra control. Integrating these junctions into a bipolar thermoelectric Josephson engine (BTJE) allowed the generation of up to ~140nW/mm2 of electric power at subkelvin temperatures. Why it matters: This BTJE engine may have applications in superconducting technology, potentially strengthening the UAE's position in quantum technologies.
The Technology Innovation Institute (TII) in Abu Dhabi has launched a cloud service providing access to its in-house Quantum Processing Units (QPUs), which range from 5 to 25 qubits. Initially available to TII partners, the service allows users to run quantum workloads on TII’s quantum hardware via the cloud, using the open-source Qibo framework as the software layer. These QPUs feature in-house fabricated chips and demonstrate quantum coherence times up to ten times longer than TII's first-generation prototypes. Why it matters: This launch provides a platform for experimentation and development of hybrid quantum-classical workflows on locally developed infrastructure, accelerating quantum research in the region.