IBM has announced a major step forward in quantum computing, successfully running a critical quantum error correction algorithm on readily available AMD field-programmable gate array (FPGA) chips. This breakthrough, revealed on October 24, marks a significant stride toward building more practical and affordable hybrid quantum systems. The algorithm performs 10 times faster than needed for live error correction, moving IBM’s 2029 quantum computer timeline a year ahead of schedule. ^[1][2][3]### Boosting Quantum Reliability with Standard Hardware Quantum computers use qubits, which can represent both 0 and 1 at the same time. These qubits are highly sensitive and prone to errors from environmental interference. Such errors can quickly disrupt calculations, making reliable error correction essential for useful quantum computing. IBM’s algorithm is designed to detect and fix these errors dynamically as they happen, keeping the quantum system stable during complex tasks. Th^[1][4][2]e most notable aspect of this achievement is the use of off-the-shelf AMD FPGAs. Previously, quantum error correction often required expensive, custom-built control units. Running these complex algorithms on standard, commercially available chips found in data centers drastically cuts down costs and simplifies development. This makes quantum computing technology more accessible and easier to scale. Ja^[1][4][2]y Gambetta, IBM’s Vice President of Quantum, emphasized the importance of this development. "Implementing it, and showing that the implementation is actually 10 times faster than what is needed, is a big deal," Gambetta told Reuters. He noted that the work confirms IBM's algorithm functions effectively in a real-world setting on a readily available and affordable AMD chip. This ^[1][2][3]speed means the system can correct errors quickly enough to maintain stable quantum operations. ### ^[1][5][6]A Partnership Accelerating Progress This latest success builds on a growing collaboration between IBM and AMD. The two technology giants announced a partnership in August to develop next-generation computing architectures. This initiative, known as quantum-centric supercomputing, aims to combine quantum computers with high-performance computing. The g^[7][8]oal is to create scalable, open-source platforms that integrate AMD CPUs, GPUs, and FPGAs with IBM quantum systems. AMD ^[7][8]technologies were identified early on as promising for real-time error correction capabilities. These capabilities are a crucial part of developing fault-tolerant quantum computing, which is IBM's ultimate vision for the end of this decade. The companies planned an initial demonstration to show how IBM quantum computers could work with AMD technologies for hybrid quantum-classical tasks. This ^[7][8]recent announcement confirms that the collaboration is already yielding significant results. The ^[1][5]partnership seeks to tackle problems that are currently beyond the reach of either classical or quantum computing alone. For example, quantum computers could simulate atomic and molecular behavior, while classical supercomputers handle massive data analysis. Together, these technologies could solve real-world challenges at unprecedented speeds. ### ^[7][8]Ahead of Schedule for Starling Quantum Computer IBM initially unveiled its error correction algorithm in June. The company will publish a research paper on Monday, October 27, detailing how it successfully ran this algorithm in real time on AMD FPGA chips. This ^[4][5]swift progress means IBM is now a full year ahead of schedule for its 2029 Starling quantum system roadmap. The ^[1][4][3]Starling project is IBM's multi-year plan to build a large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer. Achieving this milestone earlier than expected underscores IBM's rapid advancement in the competitive quantum computing landscape. It demonstrates that the technology needed to stabilize quantum systems does not require prohibitively expensive, custom hardware. This ^[4][2][3]makes quantum computing more reliable, scalable, and accessible using mainstream hardware. The ^[3]news had a positive impact on the stock market. IBM shares rose 7.88% to $397.46, and AMD shares increased 7.63% to $252.92 following the announcement. This ^[3][9]market reaction highlights investor confidence in the commercial viability and future potential of integrating quantum and classical computing. This ^[9][10]breakthrough could accelerate the commercialization of quantum technologies and open new opportunities for businesses globally. META^[11]_TITLE: IBM Quantum Error Correction 10x Faster on AMD Chips