IBM-Basque Country's quantum computer will open in San Sebastian on Tuesday

This Tuesday, October 14, Euskadi will inaugurate IBM Basque Country, the most powerful quantum computer in IBM's network, a historic breakthrough that can transform technology and science. 

This new supercomputer will be in Ikerbasque's new building in Donostia.  

Thus,  IBM-Basque Country  is integrated into the world network of the most advanced quantum computers of IBM. It currently has only two more facilities, located in Japan and the United States, which puts the Basque Autonomous Community at the forefront of quantum computing at the global level.

But... what exactly does this coming mean?

What's a quantum computer?

A quantum computer is a machine that uses the principles of quantum physics instead of the traditional circuits that use bits. In these new computers, the basic information units are qubits. Unlike the usual bits (which can only be 0 or 1), qubits can be present simultaneously in the overlaps of both states, thanks to a quantum phenomenon called overposition . Moreover, qubits can be interconnected, which means that the state of one affects that of another, even from afar.

Why is he revolutionary?

This interconnection and overlap allows quantum computers to perform calculations in parallel, with exponential capacity greater than classical computers. For example, in optimization problems, molecular simulation, or factorization of large numbers, a quantum computer can respond in unthinkable times with current technologies.

What impact will it have on our daily lives?

Although we are still in the infancy of the quantum computer, its development could lead to a revolution in areas such as personalized medicine, the creation of new materials, the improvement of computer security and the resolution of complex economic and environmental problems.

What benefits will it bring to the city of San Sebastian?

Having a quantum computer in the city brings advantages, such as attracting research centers, universities and technology companies. It also promotes talent training specializing in quantum physics, engineering and data science. It also projects San Sebastian as a pole of innovation in cutting-edge technology.

Why in the Basque Country?

This project is part of the BasQ initiative launched in 2023with the aim of consolidating the Basque Country as a reference technological hub. Initially, the installation of an IBM Quantum System One was planned, but following the updating of the agreement between the Basque Government and IBM, it has been decided to deploy the most advanced modular quantum system of IBM: IBM Quantum System Two.