Japanese electronics firm Fujitsu and research institute RIKEN have announced the development of a quantum computer that has four times the computational capabilities of a previous model.



Scientists say quantum computers are capable of making calculations much faster than supercomputers. If put into general use, they could bring about major changes to society.



The first quantum computer developed by Riken, Fujitsu and other entities began operating in 2023. The two have since continued their work in the field.



The model unveiled on Tuesday has 256 quantum bits, or qubits, making it one of the largest such systems in the world, with four times the amount of qubits in its predecessor.



Plans are underway for another four-fold increase to 1,024 qubits in the fiscal year that starts next April.



However, a quantum computer needs tens of thousands of qubits before it can be put into practical use. This is seen as a high technological hurdle, as it would require a system overhaul.



The head of Fujitsu's Quantum Laboratory, Sato Shintaro, described the latest upgrade as a key milestone in developing a quantum computer for practical use.



He expressed the hope that technological innovation will lead to solutions for society's problems.