China leverages AI to make quantum computers more usable

China is lagging the US in quantum computing, so finding ways to use the domestic ecosystem and its strengths to industrialize the quantum industry is important for China to catch up. An indigenous supply chain for quantum computers has become even more urgent following the export restrictions imposed by European countries, the US, and other countries in 2023 and 2024. 

The Hefei-based state-supported start-up, Origin Quantum, recently launched the fourth generation of its autonomous quantum computer measurement and control system Tianji 4.0 (天机4.0), which could lay the foundation for the mass production of 100 qubit computers in China. The system demonstrates how Beijing is indigenizing its quantum tech by leveraging strengths in adjacent supply chains, especially those in software and AI. 

The measurement and control system, referred to as the “neural center” of a quantum computer is needed because qubits, the physical building blocks of a quantum computer, are instable. It continuously reads qubit error signals and applies real-time feedback pulses, effectively correcting drift and decoherence before the fragile qubits lose their encoded information. Tianji 4.0 will be incorporated into China’s most advanced 72 bit superconducting quantum computer “Origin Wukong” (本源悟空) and is predicted to shorten the R&D cycle by 30% and improve control accuracy. 

The control system is designed to manage over 500 qubits and will play a key role in advancing China’s technological indigenization efforts within “an R&D model that covers the full stack” of the AI ecosystem (全栈式研发模式). The model integrates both quantum computer hardware and software. Tianji 4.0 leverages synergies in AI and software development, with “Visage,” one of its newly added core softwares, utilizing image recognition and deep learning to support an automated debugging process of superconducting quantum chips. Tasks are also becoming accessible to regular engineers and not only specialists. This could speed up the application of superconducting quantum computers. 

Antonia Hmaidi, Senior Analyst: “Finding a way to leverage its strengths in other high-tech industries to indigenize its quantum computing industry is important for China to catch up with the US. The Tianji 4.0 system utilizes China’s prowess in manufacturing AI technology to predict and diagnose errors.”