Google claims quantum supremacy – the ability to perform a calculation beyond the reach of conventional computers. This is a landmark scientific, mathematical and technical achievement. But as many such as IBM point out we should all beware of hype. The road to general purpose quantum computing remains a long one. Google has published a…
Future quantum computers will one day bring us many great benefits. Unfortunately they will also break many of the cryptographic protocols on which current Internet security depends. Google’s quantum supremacy breakthrough notwithstanding, this is still most likely many years off. However, sensitive data intercepted and stored today, or long lifecycle infrastructure could already be at…
Quantum computers can only realise their full potential by defeating the noise that plagues their delicate qubits. The field of quantum error correction offers some increasingly mature solutions. But it is also still a rapidly evolving discipline, and innovation here, as much as in hardware, will shape the future quantum computing roadmap. If 50-70 qubits are…
The arrival of Boris Johnson in Downing Street makes a hard Brexit ending more likely. To understand the impact this will have on the science and innovation landscape and quantum technology in particular, we have to look beyond the immediate disruptions and understand how the thinking of the political right has changed. UK science is…
Future quantum computers will ultimately force blockchain solutions to adopt strengthened quantum safe crypto protocols. Rationally there remains plenty of time to act, but proponents need to get their transition stories in place to avoid being caught out as we near peak quantum hype. More positively, the nascent blockchain industry also stands to be among…
Right from the conception of quantum computers it was realised that controlling the build-up of errors in quantum computations is a key problem. Theoretical progress over the last 25 years has led to the development of techniques ready to meet this challenge. This introduction is for readers interested in the terminology of quantum error correcting…
The advantages a quantum computer can offer depend on the quantum algorithms it can run and also how easily we can get data in and out of the system. Today’s hardware is still well short of the universal quantum dream and, in truth, the most often discussed benefits are still many years away. However the…
Next generation quantum key distribution is set to offer easier deployment on existing real-world infrastructure. The importance of partnering to offer end-to-end business services to early adopters is growing. The recent extension of the UK Quantum Network to the BT led tech cluster at Adastral Park is a powerful statement. Amid growing global competition, the…
The focus of the EU’s €1b Quantum Flagship programme is not basic science, nor is it simply about bringing new technologies to market. The end-goal is driving wealth creation, jobs and societal benefits in Europe. This requires kick-starting the competitive position of European industry in this sector and making Europe the region of choice for…
What’s happening with quantum technology in 2019? Watch this short video briefing on key developments across quantum computing, quantum software, quantum safe cryptography, quantum imaging & sensing. Updates on key companies and key national and regional programmes.