AQT quantum computers now supported by HQS Quantum Simulations backend

August 2021: AQT’s trapped-ion quantum computers are now supported by the HQS Quantum Simulations backend

HQS extends the open source quantum computing library qoqo and allows developers to run their quantum algorithms on AQT’s simulators. This is the first step on the way to granting access to the AQT quantum computers in the near future.

“Currently we solve strongly correlated lattice models using DMRG (Density Matrix Renormalization Group). However, no matter how optimized the method may be, classical computer are fundamentally limited”, says Michael Marthaler CEO of HQS Quantum Simulations, “While it will take a while for quantum computers to overtake existing methods, we intend to allow for the solution of small toy models on the AQT quantum computer.”.

AQT is a leading start-up in the race to build a quantum computer. A spin-off from Innsbruck University and the Austrian Academy of Sciences, AQT realizes quantum computers based on the individual manipulation of trapped charged atoms. The ion-trap platform has intrinsically low error rates and can be readily scaled up to larger systems.

AQT provides cloud-access to its quantum computer for a wide range of applications.  “Chemistry and materials are governed by the rules of quantum mechanics. The challenge is to merge chemistry understanding with quantum programming.” says Thomas Monz, CEO of AQT, “Combining the theory and software experience of HQS with the hardware and engineering expertise of AQT will significantly facilitate user- and application-driven progress in this field”.

There is no doubt that the quantum revolution is coming. Quantum technology is playing an increasingly critical role in every aspect of business. More and more companies recognize that they need to accelerate the development of digital solutions to ensure they remain on the competitive vanguard.

One of the greatest challenges in the development of quantum computers is considered the highly complex interaction of hardware and software. Two European Start-ups, each a pioneer in its field, HQS Quantum Simulations, one of the top European Quantum Software Start-ups and AQT, one of the top Quantum Computing Hardware Providers can provide the solution and will work together offering a broad range of innovative applications in various fields of industry and academia.

HQS algorithms are developed to work both on conventional state-of-the-art computers and on quantum computers. The collaboration allows customers direct access to quantum chemistry software solutions from HQS that can be immediately implemented on an AQT ion-trap quantum computer in Innsbruck, Austria, via Cirq. Customers will directly benefit from the performance advantage of quantum computers of their classical counterparts.

© Photocredits: Dieter Kühl