On September 23-24, 2023, the Quantum Industry Conference took place in Hefei, Anhui, centered on the theme "Collaborative Innovation for a Quantum Future." This event brought together experts, academicians, think-tank representatives, and industry leaders to explore advancements in the quantum sector. Keynote speaker Duan Runyao, Director of Baidu's Quantum Computing Research Institute, showcased Baidu's latest quantum hardware and software innovations. He introduced the first large-scale model in quantum computing and unveiled two AI applications: the Baidu Quantum Assistant and the Quantum Writing Assistant, designed to enhance the integration of quantum technology with large-scale models.
Duan also presented a white paper outlining the future trends and technological potential of large models in the quantum field. Quantum computing is paving the way for a new era of computational power, with predictions indicating that 69% of major global enterprises plan to adopt quantum computing by 2031. Baidu aims to accelerate the integration of quantum technology across all technology layers—including chip, framework, model, and application—by leveraging its dual strengths in quantum platforms and the Wenxin large model. This approach seeks to unlock the full potential of both technologies.
The Baidu Quantum Large Model is built on the Wenxin One model, utilizing high-quality data from the quantum field for specialized training and optimization. This model enhances the understanding of quantum concepts and improves the handling of tasks within the quantum domain. By collaborating across data, algorithms, and computational power, the model aims to optimize training speed, performance, efficiency, and data privacy.
The Baidu Quantum Assistant enriches the Wenxin large model with a knowledge base that incorporates 78 million raw data points and 220,000 refined data points, creating a streamlined technological chain that connects quantum hardware, software, and applications, thus reducing accessibility barriers for users.
The Quantum Writing Assistant is designed for generating accurate quantum-related technology documentation efficiently. By inputting just six variables, users can create a comprehensive 13,000-character patent document in about five minutes, enabling businesses to transform their quantum research into valuable intellectual property.
Duan envisions a multi-stage development for the quantum large model, starting with industry-specific configurations that facilitate quantum education. This evolution will transition toward hybrid classic and quantum models, leading to a universal quantum model designed to maximize quantum capabilities across technology. Consequently, the quantum large model may function as an operating system for a new era, fostering interconnectedness on the quantum internet and serving as a foundation for societal growth.
During the conference, Duan emphasized that quantum technology and large models are becoming primary drivers of technological transformation. Quantum computing serves as a robust tool for simulating extensive quantum systems, with the potential for quantum large models to represent the pinnacle of quantum artificial intelligence. He highlighted the significance of interactive mechanisms for "capability" transmission, combined with quantum entanglement, to enhance operational effectiveness.
Duan also updated attendees on Baidu's advancements in crucial areas such as quantum chips and integrated hardware-software solutions. The Baidu Quantum Platform has seen considerable enhancements over the past year, particularly in fintech, photonic quantum solutions, and quantum chips.
In the fintech sector, Baidu's Quantum Computing Research Institute launched QFinance, a comprehensive quantum options pricing tool that harnesses advanced quantum algorithms to provide high accuracy while markedly reducing processing times for asset allocation solutions.
In the arena of photonic quantum computing, Baidu debuted the Photonic Quantum Simulator (PQS), a significant resource for designing photonic quantum chips and developing algorithms. This simulator offers capabilities for quantum circuit simulations based on Gaussian and Fock states, featuring nearly 20 quantum gates and measurement operations, marking it as China’s inaugural tool for constructing photonic quantum circuits.
Additionally, Baidu is advancing the development of superconducting quantum chips through a meticulous closed-loop process of design, tape-out, and measurement control, aiming to produce high-performance chips competitive in the industry. Recently, Baidu validated a 2D quantum chip with couplers and completed the design and simulation of a 3D flip-chip quantum chip.
In August 2022, Baidu achieved a milestone with its launch of "Liangxi," the first comprehensive quantum hardware-software integration solution in the world, establishing a sustainable pathway for the quantum computing industry. The Liangxi platform integrates seamlessly with Baidu Cloud Computing, adopting a strategic "four-in-one" computing model—comprising quantum, high-performance, cloud, and AI computing—to facilitate flexible allocation of computational resources based on diverse business requirements. The platform has already reached its initial commercial proof of concept deployment.
With over 280 high-quality patents filed and 120 authorized across key areas such as quantum algorithms, applications, and quantum communication, Baidu continues to drive innovation and foster growth within the quantum ecosystem.