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PSI solves quantum conjecture with AI
TechCrunch AIhigh confidence
Why it matters
- →Demonstrates AI's ability to solve long-standing open problems in theoretical physics and quantum computing.
- →Establishes a new validation workflow combining LLM generation with formal proof assistants like Lean.
- →Signals the rise of 'neolabs' that treat AI as a primary research agent rather than just a tool.
Physical Superintelligence (PSI), a startup lab founded by MIT graduates, has used Anthropic’s Fable 5.2 model to solve the Aaronson-Ambainis conjecture, a major unsolved problem in quantum computing theory. The solution was autoformalized in the Lean proof assistant and verified by researchers including Scott Aaronson, one of the conjecture's original authors. PSI CEO Matt Pines describes the company as building specialized 'harnesses' for scientific discovery, aiming to convert theoretical breakthroughs into physical technologies. While the startup currently generates revenue from data center optimization, this milestone highlights the emerging capability of AI to tackle high-level theoretical research previously reserved for human experts.
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Earlier coverage that leads up to this article, and what followed. Lines connect each piece to the closest one after it, converging here.
How we got here
- 1Claude AI Solves 87-Year-Old Math Problem
The Rundown AI · July 21, 2026 · Related
- 2OpenAI's Astra Solves 10 Long-Standing Math Problems
The Rundown AI · August 3, 2026 · Background
- 3AI Solves Long-Standing Math Problems
The Verge AI · August 11, 2026 · Related
- 4Anthropic AI Model Advances on Riemann Hypothesis
TechCrunch AI · August 11, 2026 · Related
- 5OpenAI claims AI agents solved Navier-Stokes
Wes Roth · September 9, 2026 · Background
- 6AI Solving Theoretical Science Problems
WIRED AI · October 14, 2026 · Related
- 7OpenAI claims major proofs in math, CS, and physics
The Verge AI · October 26, 2026 · Related
- 8OpenAI AI disproves Exponential Time Hypothesis
Wes Roth · October 27, 2026 · Background
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