PsiQuantum Aims to Build Practical Photonic Quantum Computer Using 'Photon Labyrinths' for Massive Calculations

PsiQuantum is envisioning a large-scale quantum computer that utilizes photons (particles of light) to solve tasks that would take thousands of years on current supercomputers in just a few minutes. Founded in 2016 by four physicists from UK universities, the company has set a goal to be the first to realize a practical quantum system using photonic technology, amidst a fierce global race for technological development.

The proposed system operates by controlling thousands of photons through a labyrinth of hundreds of chips, optical switches, and beam splitters housed inside approximately 100 stainless steel cabinets maintained at temperatures near absolute zero using liquid helium. PsiQuantum claims that through this technology, it can achieve results such as predicting enzyme interactions—a complex problem that would take over a decade with existing methods—in just four minutes, emphasizing the practicality of optics-based quantum computers.

A fierce development race for quantum computer technology is underway globally. PsiQuantum has been selected as one of only two entities, alongside Microsoft, to advance to Stage 3 in a U.S. government evaluation program.