Quantinuum's Helios Quantum Computer Reaches 98 Qubits, Advancing Quantum Computing Capabilities
Quantinuum, a company with operations in Broomfield, Colorado, has developed Helios, a trapped-ion quantum computer that now operates with 98 qubits. This makes Helios the largest trapped-ion quantum computer built to date. The machine utilizes a Quantum Charge-Coupled Device (QCCD) architecture, which separates storage and processing regions, similar to classical computers. This architecture, invented in 2002, allows for efficient handling of quantum information. Helios's design includes a four-way X junction, enabling the system to perform multiple tasks simultaneously, a significant improvement over earlier QCCD machines that could only move data in a single line or loop. The device also benefits from new classical control software, Helios runtime, which optimizes data movement and processing. While Helios has demonstrated the ability to perform computations beyond the reach of current supercomputers for certain benchmark tests, the practical importance for widespread scientific and commercial applicati... 
