A D-Wave Advantage2 quantum computer is successfully participating in an experimental blockchain called Quip, winning most of the blocks it competes for while consuming far less power than conventional machines.
The Quip network has operated since April with a proof-of-work system based on optimization problems. Most participants use standard computers, yet the Advantage2 machine, available for only about five minutes daily, wins 92 percent of the blocks it enters.
Colton Dillion of Postquant Labs reported that the quantum system averages 12.5 watts to win a block, compared with 1,334 watts for typical machines. D-Wave chief executive Alan Baratz stated at a 1 June investor presentation that quantum computing offers energy-efficient solutions for difficult problems.
The network was designed to resist attacks from future quantum computers. Experts note both the potential for lower energy use and the higher capital costs of quantum hardware, with other companies also exploring similar quantum proof-of-work approaches.
