China unveils world’s first ‘dual core’ quantum computer - South China Morning Post
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AdvertisementScienceChinaScienceChina unveils Hanyuan-2, the world’s first dual-core quantum computerUnlike other models, the machine does not need to be kept at ultra-low temperatures and is easier to maintain2-MIN READ2-MIN28ListenMake SCMP preferred on GoogleAdvertisementFurther ReadingChina builds world’s first ‘coal battery’ with zero emissionLatest US-China rivalry combines undersea dominance with a race to richesAdvertisementAdvertisementDannie Pengin BeijingPublished: 6:05pm, 9 May 2026Updated: 7:42pm, 9 May 2026China has built the world’s first dual-core quantum computer, a development that could “significantly enhance” efficiency, according to official media.The breakthrough signalled that Chinese quantum computing technology was “entering a new stage”, the state-owned Science and Technology Daily reported this week.While other quantum computers rely on high energy consumption and need to be run in temperatures close to absolute zero, the design of this computer uses neutral atoms – which consume less energy and make the machine easier to maintain.According to the report, the twin cores support parallel computing – a function compared to two brains operating together – and can divide tasks between them or correct each other’s errors.The computer, dubbed Hanyuan-2, was developed by CAS Cold Atom Technology, a tech firm affiliated with the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) and based in the central Chinese city of Wuhan.Quantum computers perform calculations and solve complex problems using qubits – or quantum bits – a fundamental unit of information.View in AppREAD FULL ARTICLEDevelopers globally have struggled when attempting to handle millions of qubits, prompting some to adopt a pragmatic approach by focusing on industrial applications involving a moderate number of qubits – typically ranging from a few dozen to several hundred.Hanyuan-2 exemplifies this strategy. Equipped with 200 qubits, its core performance metrics, including qubit lifetime, had reached “world-class standards”, the report said.Unlike alternative quantum technologies that rely on ions, photons or artificial atoms, the computer uses neutral, uncharged atoms – which reduce energy consumption and help keep the operating temperature above that needed for other advanced computers.“The Hanyuan-2 adopts a standard cabinet-style integrated design and only requires a small laser cooling system to operate,” Tang Biao, general manager of the company, told the newspaper.Tang added that the machine’s total power consumption was less than 7 kilowatts, meaning it could be used in ordinary conditions rather than just in ultra-low temperatures.The report said the machine had built on more than two decades of expertise in quantum technology.In November last year, the company’s previous model, the Hanyuan-1, passed a significant commercial milestone by securing its first deals with both domestic and international customers.AdvertisementDannie PengFOLLOWFOLLOWDannie joined SCMP in 2023 and focuses on science stories in China, with a particular interest in the scientific community and societal impacts of scientific advances. She previously worked for China Newsweek, covering topics including China's healthcare system, public health and science. She has won several awards for her investigative reporting.related topicsScience | Mainland China | Chinese Academy of Social SciencesBefore you go28 Commentsscmp pollAdvertisementDiscover MORE stories onScienceFOLLOWHere’s how China plans to sanction-proof its C919 passenger jetInspired by crocodile scales, Chinese armour tech said to deflect projectilesA big step forward for optical core of China’s Taiji gravitational wave projectAdvertisementAdvertisementSelect VoiceSelect Speed0.8x0.9x1.0x1.1x1.2x1.5x1.75x00:0000:001.