Chinese researchers claim that the launch of Hanyuan-2 represents a major step forward for the country’s quantum computing ambitions, with state media describing the system as evidence that China’s quantum technology is moving into a new phase of development. 

Unlike many existing quantum computers that require enormous energy consumption and ultra-cold environments near absolute zero to function, Hanyuan-2 is built around neutral atom technology, which is considered more energy efficient and easier to operate and maintain. The system’s most notable feature is its dual-core architecture, which allows the two quantum processing units to work simultaneously, similar to two interconnected brains. 

According to Chinese media reports, the paired cores can split computational workloads between them while also helping identify and correct errors during processing, potentially improving both speed and reliability.

Hanyuan-2 focuses on real-world industrial applications

Developed by CAS Cold Atom Technology, a company linked to the Chinese Academy of Sciences and headquartered in Wuhan, Hanyuan-2 represents China’s latest attempt to accelerate the transition of quantum computing from experimental research into practical industrial use, the South China Morning Post reports.

Quantum computers rely on qubits, or quantum bits, which allow them to process information in ways that are far beyond the capabilities of traditional computers when handling certain highly complex tasks. However, scaling these systems remains one of the industry’s biggest technical challenges. 

Researchers around the world continue to face difficulties in managing millions of qubits reliably, leading many companies and laboratories to prioritize more achievable near-term applications using systems built with dozens or hundreds of qubits instead of massive large-scale architectures.

Rather than pursuing extremely large-scale systems, Hanyuan-2 focuses on improving the performance and stability of a more manageable quantum computer design. The machine operates with 200 qubits, and Chinese state media reported that key indicators, including the lifetime and reliability of its qubits, have already reached what researchers described as world-class levels.

Reducing the extreme cooling needs of quantum systems

Instead of depending on ions, photons or synthetic atoms like many other quantum systems, Hanyuan-2 is built around neutral atom technology. Because these atoms carry no electrical charge, the system consumes less energy and does not require the extremely low operating temperatures commonly associated with other advanced quantum computers. 

Researchers note that this approach could make the machines easier and potentially less expensive to operate and maintain. According to Tang Biao, general manager of CAS Cold Atom Technology, Hanyuan-2 features a compact cabinet-style integrated design and operates using only a relatively small laser cooling system. 

Tang explained that the quantum computer consumes less than 7 kilowatts of power in total, allowing it to function in more conventional operating environments instead of relying exclusively on ultra-low temperature conditions required by many other quantum systems.

Furthermore, the Chinese company behind the system has already begun moving toward commercialization, with its earlier Hanyuan-1 model reaching an important milestone in November last year after winning its first contracts from customers in both China and overseas markets.