Alice & Bob Selected by DARPA for Quantum Benchmarking Initiative to Advance Cat Qubit Technology Toward Utility-Scale Computing by 2033

Alice & Bob, a leader in fault-tolerant quantum computing based in Boston, MA, and Paris, France, has been selected by DARPA as a Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) performer. The company was awarded funding for Stage A of the program to advance its cat qubit technology toward achieving utility-scale quantum computing by 2033.

Under QBI, Alice & Bob will detail the concept of a utility-scale quantum computer using cat qubits, which inherently suppress bit-flip errors and reduce hardware requirements for quantum error correction. The initiative involves three stages, each contingent on the successful completion of the prior one. DARPA and the Department of Energy’s Office of Science are collaborating to evaluate the feasibility of building such systems for real-world applications. Alice & Bob’s selection underscores the potential of its cat qubit technology in advancing practical quantum computing solutions.

Alice & Bob Selected by DARPA for Quantum Benchmarking Initiative

Alice & Bob has been selected by DARPA to participate in their Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI), a program aimed at verifying if utility-scale quantum computers can be achieved by 2033. This selection underscores the company’s innovative approach to fault-tolerant quantum computing, particularly through their use of cat qubits.

The QBI program is structured into three stages. In Stage A, Alice & Bob will outline the concept for a utility-scale quantum computer utilizing cat qubits. If successful, they may proceed to Stage B, developing an R&D plan, identifying potential risks, and creating necessary prototypes. The final stage, Stage C, involves collaborating with DARPA’s evaluation team to test their approach at scale rigorously.

Alice and Bob’s technology leverages cat qubits, which inherently suppress bit-flip errors. This significantly reduces the need for extensive error correction hardware, making their approach more efficient and cost-effective compared to alternative methods in quantum computing.

The company recently secured a $100 million Series B funding round and was selected for France’s PROQCIMA program, further solidifying its position as a leader in quantum innovation. DARPA’s selection for the QBI initiative highlights the transformative potential of its cat qubit technology and its commitment to advancing practical quantum computing solutions.

DARPA QBI Program Structure and Objectives

The DARPA Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI) is structured to systematically evaluate the feasibility of achieving utility-scale quantum computing by 2033. The program is divided into three sequential stages, each building on the outcomes of the previous phase.

In Stage A, Alice & Bob will develop a detailed concept for a utility-scale quantum computer based on their proprietary cat qubit technology. This stage defines the architecture and operational parameters necessary to achieve fault-tolerant quantum computing at scale.

The company will create a comprehensive research and development plan if selected for Stage B. This phase will involve identifying key technical risks, designing prototypes, and outlining the steps required to advance fault tolerance in quantum systems. The emphasis here is on addressing challenges related to error correction and scalability, which are critical for realizing practical quantum computing applications.

Stage C represents the final evaluation phase, during which Alice and Bob will collaborate closely with DARPA’s test and evaluation team. This stage aims to rigorously verify and validate whether their approach can be successfully scaled and operated as intended. The goal is to ensure that the proposed system meets theoretical expectations and demonstrates practical utility in real-world applications.

The QBI program benefits from the Department of Energy’s Office of Science, which provides essential tools, infrastructure, and expertise for evaluating quantum computing systems. This collaboration enhances the ability to co-design and assess the feasibility of fault-tolerant quantum computers for high-impact domains such as chemistry and materials science.

Alice & Bobs Cat Qubit Technology Advantages

Alice & Bob’s cat qubit technology offers a distinct advantage in fault-tolerant quantum computing by inherently suppressing bit-flip errors. This feature significantly reduces the complexity of error correction hardware, making their approach more efficient and cost-effective than alternative methods.

The company’s technology ensures that its approach meets both theoretical expectations and real-world application demands, supported by collaborations with leading institutions and organizations in the field.