🖥️ Google-brained robot folds, seals with AI dexterity; Solar cell tech achieves 35% power increase; Quantum computer beats supercomputer by millenia

A US-based firm has achieved a significant milestone in quantum computing by using its Advantage 2 prototype annealing quantum computer to solve a complex, real-world problem related to programmable spin glasses.

This accomplishment demonstrates the potential of quantum computers to tackle problems beyond the capabilities of even the most powerful supercomputers.

The problem tackled by D-Wave involved simulating the behavior of magnetic materials, which is essential for various applications but computationally intensive. Traditional supercomputers and HPC centers using GPUs struggle with these tasks, being both time-consuming and energy-intensive. Dive deeper into this Must-Read

Reading Time: 4 mins

Did a friend forward this e-mail to you? Subscribe here.

MUST-READ

🖥️ World-first: US quantum computer solves problem million years faster than supercomputer

D-Wave's annealing quantum computer, which leverages quantum mechanics to find optimal solutions, solved the problem in minutes, while estimates suggest a supercomputer like Frontier at ORNL would require a million years and immense energy consumption.

D-Wave's success highlights the potential of annealing quantum computers to surpass classical computers in solving specific, useful problems.

The company's CEO emphasized that this demonstration of quantum computational supremacy on a practical application is an industry first. This distinguishes it from disputed claims or those involving random number generation. D-Wave offers access to its enhanced processor through its quantum cloud service.

☀️ 35% power boost: New solar cell technology achieves significant electric output

Researchers have made a significant advancement in energy harvesting by enhancing the bulk photovoltaic effect (BPVE) in ferroelectric materials.

By using AC poling to manipulate ferroelectric domains, they achieved a 35% increase in electric output, potentially surpassing traditional solar cell efficiency.

Despite the 35% improvement, challenges remain in finding materials with both a narrow band gap and large spontaneous polarization. Future research will focus on expanding material options and developing small-scale sensing and computing devices utilizing BPVE.

🤖 Watch: Google-brained humanoid robot masters delicate moves, folds bags, seals snacks

Google DeepMind has introduced Gemini Robotics and Gemini Robotics-ER, two AI models designed to revolutionize robot control.

Gemini Robotics utilizes "vision-language-action" (VLA) capabilities, enabling robots to interpret visuals, understand language commands, and execute movements with improved generality, interactivity, and dexterity.

Gemini Robotics significantly boosts robot adaptability by leveraging Gemini's world knowledge to handle diverse tasks and environments. Its advanced language capabilities facilitate natural, conversational commands and real-time adjustments. Furthermore, it enables complex motor tasks like origami folding.

Love what you're reading, but too many emails? Sign up to IE+ to get Blueprint Weekly, our exclusive weekly premium newsletter that gives all the insights you love in a more digestible weekly format– plus, enjoy an Ad-Free experience on our website. Try IE+ today for just $1 in the first month. Subscribe here

HOT TOPICS OF THE DAY

SCIENCE

> MIT researchers have developed a direct method to convert skin cells into neurons, bypassing the stem cell stage. This technique, demonstrated in mouse cells, significantly improves neuron production efficiency. (More)

> NTU scientists created a solar-powered process to convert sewage sludge into green hydrogen and animal feed. This three-step method combines mechanical, chemical, and biological techniques. (More)

> Chinese archaeologists have unearthed a 2,200-year-old tomb containing the remains of a woman whose teeth were coated in cinnabar, a poisonous red mineral. (More)

ENERGY

> Chinese researchers have developed a molten salt method to regenerate degraded lithium-ion battery cathodes. This technique restores 81.2% of the battery's capacity, even after 200 cycles at low temperatures. (More)

> Researchers in the United States have developed a new computer code, QUADCOIL, designed to significantly speed up the design of stellarator fusion reactors. (More)

> Rosatom has begun assembling the RITM-200 reactor vessel, bringing their total RITM reactor production to eight units, an unprecedented number. (More)

INNOVATION

> German researchers have developed motorless, lubricant-free vacuum pumps and valves using dielectric elastomeric silicone films. (More)

> The creators of the Tien Kung electric running humanoid robot have launched "Hui Si Kai Wu," an AI platform to boost robotic autonomy. This system allows robots to autonomously make decisions for complex tasks. (More)

> Cognixion's Axon R, an AI-powered, non-invasive BCI headset, has begun patient trials. This device utilizes electrodes on the occipital lobe and monitors brain activity to enable brain-computer interaction. (More)

VIDEO

> To mitigate wildfires, researchers are developing a "worm robot" for efficient, cost-effective underground power line installation. (More)

> A new study advises children under eight to avoid glycerol-containing "slushy" ice drinks due to potential health risks. (More)

FROM THE WEB

> Robot dogs to be used in York Minster fire prevention bid

> Anti-aging zealot Bryan Johnson wants to start ‘foodome sequencing’

> 3D-printed micro-lens can see inside blood vessels

> Microsoft is making TypeScript 10x faster with native implementation in Go

> Rehab robotics and synced zaps restore movement after spinal injury

> Astronomers just created the most detailed 3D map of cosmic dust yet