Fujitsu & RIKEN Unveil Superconducting Quantum Computer To Bridge Classical & Quantum Computing

One of the most innovative technologies of our time is computing, with various domains–such as edge computing, cloud computing, grid computing, distributed computing, and cluster computing–driving innovation and research in digital technologies.

However, there is rising interest in quantum computing, and a new advancement has sent ripples through the scientific community. Fujitsu and RIKEN, developers of Japan’s second indigenous quantum computer, have unveiled a 256-qubit superconducting quantum computer at the RIKEN RQC-Fujitsu Collaboration Center.

So, what makes this new hybrid quantum computer unique and ground-breaking?  

What Did Fujitsu And Riken Announce?

Fujitsu and RIKEN have unveiled Japan's most powerful quantum computer to date—a 256-qubit superconducting system. The new quantum computer quadruples the processing power of the previous 64-qubit model, also developed by the duo.

At its core, the 256-qubit superconducting quantum computer is designed to solve highly complex problems in fields of material sciences, cryptography, drug discovery, and finance.

Built on the scalable architecture of the earlier 64-qubit design, the superconducting quantum computer maintains its core layout but vastly increases capacity by overcoming technical and engineering challenges. For instance, the system’s cooling uses dilution refrigeration, achieved by incorporating high-density, cutting-edge thermal design.

Moreover, a 3D connection structure allows qubits to scale seamlessly, packing four-qubit cells efficiently within a three-dimensional framework. The 256-qubit model utilizes the same unit cell design of its 64-qubit predecessor, showing the scalability potential of Fujitsu and RIKEN’s architectural approach.


It also allows the new computer to quadruple its qubits, scaling from 64 to 256 qubits, while maintaining the same cooling units. This optimized thermal design ensures that heat from control circuits is effectively dissipated while preserving the ultra-high vacuum conditions crucial for superconducting performance.

Plus, the expanded qubit count opens the doors for new possibilities in quantum error correction, molecule analysis, and complex simulations for drug discovery and materials sciences.

However, what stands out is its integration with a hybrid quantum computing platform.  

How Can The Hybrid Platform Unify Quantum And Classical Computing?

The 256-qubit quantum system is not a standalone marvel, but part of Fujitsu and RIKEN’s hybrid quantum computing platform. Essentially, it combines quantum computing systems with classical computing to solve complex, real-world problems.

This hybrid approach empowers organizations to run quantum-classical algorithms efficiently, making larger-scale quantum computers viable for businesses, research institutions, and universities.

Having previously developed and launched a 64-qubit superconducting quantum computer, it served as a base for building a practical 256-qubit hybrid quantum system. This advancement has major implications for various research fields, with Fujitsu and RIKEN planning to launch a 1,000-qubit computer at Fujitsu Technology Park in 2026.

So, on the back of this development, what else can we look forward to?  

What’s Next On The Quantum Computing Roadmap?

With Fujitsu and RIKEN already looking beyond 256 qubits, the RIKEN RQC-Fujitsu Collaboration Center’s collaboration tenure has been extended until March 2029. The project will continue under the Japanese government’s Quantum Leap Flagship Program, with support from MEXT (Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology) and prominent researcher and physicist, Yasunobu Nakamura.

Both Japanese companies are also aiming to enhance the usability of hybrid computing platforms, aiming to create seamless transitions between quantum and classical computing environments.

The scalable 3D architecture used to develop the superconducting quantum system is the star of the show, allowing researchers to scale qubit counts without reinventing the wheel. This modular design will be critical for future scalability, especially with plans to achieve 1,000 qubits and more.

The innovations in thermal design and cooling will also be key in ensuring that quantum systems remain viable for longer durations, a challenge that has plagued previous efforts in the field.

With the latest advancement, Fujitsu has positioned itself as the world’s frontrunner in superconducting quantum computing. Its collaboration with RIKEN, Japan's largest research institution, will only increase its edge over the competition, including brands like IBM, Google, D-Wave, and AWS.

Do you think the Fujitsu-RIKEN partnership can lead the practical hybrid quantum computing space and scale faster than global counterparts?

Let us know in the comments below!