VTT Technical Research Centre Of Finland And IQM Quantum Computers Introduce A 20-bit Quantum Computer

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The new 20-qubit quantum computer in Finland, produced by VTT and IQM, could help make the country a key player in the rising quantum revolution.

By Kenna Hughes-Castleberry posted 10 Oct 2023

In recent years, Finland has quietly but steadily been making its mark in quantum computing. This Nordic nation, renowned for its education system, technological prowess, and innovative mindset, is quickly emerging as a new hub for quantum computing research and development.

Adding to this growing hub of activity, the VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland (VTT) and IQM Quantum Computers (IQM) recently announced their completion of a 20-qubit quantum computer, the second one for Finland.

“We are proud of this moment. It is a pivotal achievement in our journey for our team, Finland, and the European quantum ecosystem,” The CEO and Co-founder of IQM Quantum Computers Dr. Jan Goetz stated in the recent press release. “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.”

A Nordic Quantum Nation

It was in 2020 that Finland officially began developing a quantum computing hub. The country had “a total budget of EUR 20.7 million from the government to develop a 50-qubit quantum computer in 2024,” according to the press release. Since then, the government has expanded the budget to EUR 30 million with the goal of producing a 300-qubit quantum computer.

Thanks to these efforts by Finland’s leadership, the country is slowly gaining a reputation of a growing quantum hub. Finland has also seen the emergence of several quantum startups that are gaining international recognition. Companies like IQM, a quantum hardware manufacturer, and Bluefors, which specializes in ultra-low temperature systems for quantum research, have rapidly expanded their operations and attracted substantial investments. These startups are contributing to the development of cutting-edge quantum hardware and software.

Finnish researchers and scientists have been at the forefront of quantum research. Their contributions span various aspects of quantum computing, from quantum algorithms to quantum materials and hardware. Pioneering projects like the Finnish Quantum Flagship, part of the European Union’s flagship initiative, are pushing the boundaries of quantum science.

Finland Looks Ahead

In partnering together, VTT and IQM produced a 20-qubit quantum computer, a stepping stone in the path towards the 50-qubit goal initially established by the government. As the processes of qubit interfacing and interacting are still being developed, scaling up quantum computing platforms from one to multiple qubits is an ongoing challenge.

”Finland has evolved into a central player in quantum computer development, thanks to our sustained investments in education, research, and innovation in quantum technology. Our dynamic quantum technology startups, such as IQM and Bluefors, together with the unveiling of the 20-qubit quantum computer, stand as glowing testament to our pioneering spirit”, says Antti Vasara, President & CEO of VTT told Inside Quantum Technology.

As quantum computing continues to advance, Finland’s contributions and achievements in this field are likely to shape the future of technology and science, positioning the nation as a key player in the quantum revolution.

Kenna Hughes-Castleberry is a staff writer at Inside Quantum Technology and the Science Communicator at JILA (a partnership between the University of Colorado Boulder and NIST). Her writing beats include deep tech, quantum computing, and AI. Her work has been featured in Scientific American, New Scientist, Discover Magazine, Ars Technica, and more.