Global Push for Quantum Computing Accelerates After China’s Time Crystal Breakthrough

Researchers and policymakers in the U.S., UK, and EU are intensifying efforts to advance quantum computing following China’s recent breakthrough in room-temperature time crystals.

Physicists from Tsinghua University, along with contributors from Denmark and Austria, revealed in a July 2 study the creation and observation of time crystals at room temperature. This discovery has spurred Western quantum labs to accelerate their research and form new collaborations.

Time crystals, a concept first proposed by physicist Frank Wilczek in 2012, represent a novel state of matter. Unlike traditional crystals, which repeat in space, time crystals oscillate between different states over time, akin to a looping GIF. This unique property was previously simulated by quantum computers in 2021, indicating potential for exploring exotic states of matter.

The achievement of room-temperature time crystals could significantly advance quantum computing by potentially enabling the creation of stable qubits that require less power and infrastructure. In response to this development, Western countries are ramping up their quantum research initiatives.

In the U.S., DARPA and the state of Illinois have each pledged $140 million to establish a new quantum computing center in Chicago. Meanwhile, the UK government has committed around $127 million to develop five quantum research hubs led by Oxford University. Additionally, MIT and the University of Copenhagen have announced a multimillion-dollar collaboration to further quantum computing research.