Baidu, a Chinese tech company, is set to donate its quantum computing laboratory and equipment to Beijing Academy of Quantum Information Sciences (BAQIS). This follows Alibaba’s decision to close its quantum lab, donating it to Zhejiang University. Baidu’s quantum research center, founded in 2018, has achieved milestones, including the release of Qian Shi in 2022.
AT A GLANCE
- Baidu’s Donation: Baidu, a Chinese technology company, plans to donate a quantum computing laboratory and equipment to the Beijing Academy of Quantum Information Sciences (BAQIS).
- Details in Progress: Currently, both Baidu and BAQIS are in the process of working out the specific details of the donation.
- Alibaba’s Previous Move: Alibaba had previously announced the winding down of its quantum computing laboratory in November. Baidu’s decision follows suit, with Alibaba donating its lab and equipment to Zhejiang University.
- Baidu’s Quantum Computing Research Centre: It had established its quantum computing research centre in 2018, achieving milestones such as the development of Qian Shi, a quantum computer released in 2022.
- Collaboration with BAQIS: Baidu and BAQIS have a history of collaboration in quantum research. They previously joined forces to launch China’s first quantum computing industry intellectual property alliance in March, demonstrating a commitment to advancing quantum technology together.
Baidu Shifts Quantum Focus: Donates Lab and Equipment to Beijing Institute (BAQIS)
In a move that echoes its competitor Alibaba, Chinese tech giant Baidu has chosen to shift its focus in the burgeoning field of quantum computing. Instead of continuing internal development, the company is donating its entire quantum computing lab and equipment to the government-backed Beijing Academy of Quantum Information Sciences (BAQIS). This news follows Alibaba’s similar decision in November 2023 to donate its quantum computing resources to Zhejiang University.
Baidu’s decision represents a strategic shift in its approach to quantum computing. Established in 2018, the company’s internal quantum research center achieved notable milestones, including the development of Qian Shi, a quantum computer launched in 2022. However, the company appears to be prioritizing other areas within its research portfolio, opting to contribute to the broader quantum ecosystem through collaboration with BAQIS.
Boosting National Quantum Efforts:
BAQIS, founded in 2017 with the backing of the Beijing municipal government and leading academic institutions, is a prominent player in China’s national quantum research efforts. This donation will significantly bolster BAQIS’s capabilities, providing it with advanced infrastructure and experienced personnel. The move strengthens the collaboration between the private and public sectors, accelerating China’s progress in quantum computing.
The implications of Baidu’s donation are multifaceted:
- Enhanced Research: The influx of resources and expertise will undoubtedly accelerate BAQIS’s research and development efforts. This could lead to breakthroughs in areas such as quantum algorithms, hardware development, and error correction.
- Talent Pool: Baidu’s experienced quantum researchers joining BAQIS will further strengthen the institute’s talent pool, attracting even more skilled professionals to the field.
- Collaboration: The donation fosters closer collaboration between Baidu and BAQIS, potentially leading to joint ventures and future research partnerships.
While Baidu’s exit from internal quantum development may raise questions, its commitment to the field through collaboration remains strong. This strategic move by Baidu highlights the evolving landscape of quantum computing research in China, with an emphasis on collective efforts and resource pooling to advance the technology. The collaboration between Baidu and BAQIS promises to be a significant force in shaping the future of quantum computing in China and beyond.
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Source(s): Reuters
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