In contrast to the hype, the early applications of quantum computers look modest. But they do exist. The talented teams developing quantum algorithms still have a fight on their hands to bring forward the date of true broad quantum advantage. What might be achieved and when?
The world needs better cyber security, more so now than ever because of the current threat posed by future quantum computers. A wealth of new techniques are emerging to meet the diverse needs of users. However, to fully appreciate the emerging competitive dynamics and government actions in this sector, we also have to understand the long-term technological revolution that many believe will one day lead to the creation of the Quantum Internet.
Since the birth of modern computing, progress has been supported by the evolution of an evermore sophisticated layered approach to software. A wide variety of majors and startups are vying to secure their place in the quantum software sector. To understand their plans we have to ask both what is similar and what is different…
Business must act now to secure itself against the security threat posed by future quantum computers. Fortunately new quantum-resistant maths-based crypto is on track to protect businesses that act promptly. To understand the growing momentum behind additional physics-based quantum security, it’s necessary to appreciate its unique enduring security promise and the long term direction in…
Despite strong progress, demonstrating actual quantum advantage with early devices is still an elusive challenge. Expert opinion differs markedly on where and when initial value will come. Future large scale machines look great, but the overheads look daunting. With current error correction methods even a one million physical qubit machine may only be a modest…
Recently updated advice on quantum security technologies from the UK NCSC is bluntly sceptical about the promised benefits of quantum key distribution. This seems at odds with the scramble of governments around the world to promote the development of quantum networking technologies. Who is right? Future large scale quantum computers will one day bring many…
Commercial activity around quantum computing has risen to fever pitch over the last year. Many point to the traditional cycle of hype and consolidation in tech markets. Some have become quick to call ‘bullshit’ much of the activity at the current commercial frontier. Others predict a coming quantum winter. How can investors and early adopters…
Contrary to many reports there are set to be immediate applications even for early devices. Some will be controversial. However in other areas timelines look over-hyped. 2020 will be a key year to prove the naysayers wrong. Will clients see early value? Despite all the fuss, quantum processors actually run more slowly than conventional processors.…
In 2020 everyone will want to persuade you to join their quantum software camp. Not everyone will come away happy. Huddling round the community fire may be a good way to keep the chills of quantum winter at bay. Making camp Everyone knows how lucrative controlling the software playing field became in the original Digital…
Fortunately preparations are well in hand to fix the Internet before large scale quantum computers can break it. But even in 2020, sensitive data intercepted and stored is already vulnerable to future attack. Companies must act to ensure they are not caught-out by the coming transition. In the longer term, the tantalising promise of the…