IBM's quantum computer did in 19 seconds what a supercomputer could take 110 years to do!

IBM's quantum computer completed a complex calculation in just 19 seconds, while a supercomputer could take an estimated 110 years. What makes this experiment so significant?

October 04, 2026 / 16:23 IST

• IBM quantum computer solves complex task in 19 seconds.
• Task would take supercomputer 110 years to complete.
• Demonstrates quantum advantage in specialized tasks.

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IBM's quantum computer has completed a complex calculation in just 19 seconds, a task estimated to take one of the world's most powerful supercomputers around 110 years. The experiment highlights the growing potential of quantum technology to outperform conventional computing systems in specialised tasks.

Researchers used IBM's Nighthawk R2 quantum processor to perform a calculation known as random circuit sampling. The processor generated one million samples using 61 qubits, demonstrating the potential of quantum computers to tackle problems that are extremely difficult for traditional machines.

The findings add to evidence of quantum advantage, in which quantum computers outperform classical systems on specific computational tasks. However, this does not mean quantum computers are faster at everything.