IBM has unveiled a pair of quantum processors designed to showcase quantum advantage, meaning the capacity of quantum systems to outperform traditional computers in specific tasks, potentially by late 2026. These processors, named Nighthawk and Loon, employ distinct methods for linking qubits, which should reduce mistake rates and enable handling of more intricate calculations.
Among the pair, IBM views the Nighthawk quantum processor as the primary candidate for achieving quantum advantage through ongoing refinements. By the close of 2025, the edition shared with collaborators will feature 120 interconnected qubits via 218 advanced adjustable couplers in a square grid formation for neighbor connections. According to IBM, this setup enables running computational circuits that are 30 percent more elaborate while keeping error levels down. It also supports tackling tougher challenges involving as many as 5,000 two-qubit operations.
The Loon quantum processor stands out as the bolder innovation, linking qubits both sideways across the surface and in a stacked vertical manner, as reported by New Scientist. Regardless of which processor shows greater promise, the expanded linking possibilities promise reduced inaccuracies and heightened computational depth, paving the way for practical quantum applications in various fields.
In tandem with these processors, IBM is supporting a collaborative initiative for tracking quantum advantage progress, spearheaded by Algorithmiq along with experts from the Flatiron Institute and BlueQubit. This tool facilitates three types of experiments in quantum advantage, covering observable estimation, variational challenges, and issues amenable to straightforward classical checks, IBM explains. The firm has extended an open call for contributions from the broader scientific community.
As highlighted by New Scientist, IBM's strategy diverges from rivals such as Google by emphasizing interconnections among modest clusters of qubits. Google debuted its Willow processor in 2024, positioning it as capable of theoretical quantum advantage. In 2025, Google followed up with the 'Quantum Echoes' method tailored for Willow, marking the inaugural confirmed quantum advantage via the out-of-order time correlator (OTOC) technique.