Quantum computing promises the potential for industrial and social transformation by solving complex problems more efficiently than classical computers.
However, challenges such as scalability, high error rates, cost, and skill gaps hamper the commercial realization of quantum computing.
Milestones like IBM’s Flamingo Machines and Microsoft’s topological Qubits show progress. These advancements, along with initiatives like the Quantum Benchmark Initiative, pave the way for practical applications and greater adoption.
This article covers this journey of commercialising the cutting edge of technology.
What is quantum computing?
Quantum computing represents a transformative approach to processing information, leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations that go far beyond the capabilities of classical computers. At that core, quantum computing uses qubits, or qubits. This can exist in multiple states simultaneously thanks to properties such as superposition and entanglement.
This feature allows quantum technology to solve complex problems more efficiently than traditional binary systems.
Development of fault-resistant quantum computing is essential to minimizing errors and ensuring reliable results. Achieves commercial adoption of quantum computing with increasing kibit counts and reducing error rates, as shown on IBM’s Osprey machines with 433 kibits. A visionary effort is underway to expand this to 100,000 qubit machines, and promises significant advances.
As companies expect to invest heavily in quantum initiatives, integrating these technologies with classic systems presents a vital step in enabling practical applications and revealing new possibilities in a variety of areas.
What possibilities do industrial and social quantum computing hold?
Based on the fundamental principles and advances in quantum computing, the possibilities of technology that transform industry and society are becoming increasingly clear.
Quantum technology promises to revolutionize sectors such as drug discovery so that the ability to simulate complex molecular interactions can dramatically accelerate the development of new drugs. Quantum computing adoption is gaining momentum, with the market forecast to grow from $928.8 million to $6.5 billion by 2020.
As tech giants work with startups, the development of commercially useful quantum computers becomes a concrete reality and promises a major social impact.
What are the main challenges facing the journey to widespread use of quantum technology?
Despite the promising advances in quantum computing, the journey to widespread use presents many challenges to address to reach its full potential.
One important hurdle is the scalability and optimization of quantum computers based on physical qubits. This now has high error rates and noise, complicating integration with classical computing systems. The feasibility of building and maintaining these quantum systems is further hampered by high costs and advanced cooling techniques required.
Furthermore, the complexity of programming for quantum computers, which requires a transition from the classical computing paradigm, adds another layer of difficulty. It is a noticeable gap in workforce skills that exacerbate these technical issues. The lack of experts equipped to promote this technology poses a considerable barrier.
Overcoming these challenges is essential to moving quantum technology from research to practical applications, achieving concrete return on investment, and thereby avoiding the “quantum valley of death.”
So far, what are the important milestones within the quantum industry?
The quantum industry has marked several pivotal milestones, bringing it closer to commercial viability.
IBM’s transition from Heron machines to Flamingo Quantum Computers exemplifies advances in scalability with the aim of significantly increasing gates by 2028. This initiative highlights the industrial feasibility of quantum computing as modular architectures enhance potential applications. Similarly, Microsoft’s quest for topological qubits, particularly Majolana Fermion, promises a more stable qubit. This is an essential step into a practical quantum computing solution.
The expansion of D-Wave in the provision of quantum optimization indicates an increase in industrial adoption of quantum technology in a variety of areas. Furthermore, the U.S. Department of Defense’s eight-year strategic plan reflects government investments and highlights the future potential of the technology.
Quantinuum’s roadmap for fully fault-resistant quantum computers by 2029 aims to assess the feasibility of the industry by 2033, in line with the DARPA Quantum Benchmark Initiative, indicating notable advances in realizing the commercial promises of quantum computing.
What’s next on your journey to quantum commercialization?
How does quantum computing move from experimental reality to commercial reality? The advance path includes enhancing the capabilities of quantum machines and ensuring commercial viability.
IBM’s advances to Flamingo machines exemplify this trajectory, with the expected number of gates increasing from 5,000 to 15,000 by 2028. The purpose of such development is to make quantum systems industrially useful and is consistent with the US Department of Defense’s eight-year plan for practical quantum applications.
The quantum benchmark initiative, which includes a selected 10 companies, will critically evaluate the industrial viability of these machines by 2033. This is a crucial step for wider adoption. As research progresses, demand for these advanced quantum platforms is expected to rise, shifting the focus from academic research to commercial deployment.
Meanwhile, the ongoing investigation of Quantum-Safe Cryptography addresses Quantum Security concerns. This is an important aspect to eliminating widespread commercial use barriers. Together, these efforts mean a collaborative push to realize the commercial potential of quantum computing.
This article will also be featured in the 22nd edition of Quarterly Publication.
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