Universal Quantum launched the iQPU, a quantum processor based on trapped ions. According to the company's announcement, it has an active compute area of more than 400 square millimeters. Its QCCD architecture moves ions across the chip, so distant qubits can be connected instead of each qubit being fixed in one place. The company says this reduces the number of qubits needed for commercial problems.
The chip integrates low-noise control electronics, which reduce the amount of external hardware and the "wiring problem", and UQConnect interfaces that let several processors exchange quantum information and operate as one computer. It is fabricated on a commercial 200 mm foundry line using standard design and manufacturing tools. "We have brought the ion trap, control electronics and modular connections together in one chip," said Mike Newman, the company's VP of Engineering.
The iQPU will be integrated into the systems the company is building for customers, including the German Aerospace Center (DLR), which signed €67 million contracts for two quantum computers. The company recently raised a $100 million Series A round. It did not publish qubit counts, error figures or a date for systems with the new chip.