Quantum Information Processing

Quantum Software Outlook

Quantum Software Outlook 2022

IBM continues to lead the quantum cloud, but faces real competition to service early quantum applications. Building the future of this market still looks like a long game. It may be more important to pick a partner with the right strategy than just to compare today’s product features.

Quantum Algorithms

Quantum Algorithms Outlook 2022

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?

Introduction to Hamiltonian simulation

Introduction to Hamiltonian simulation

Simulating other quantum systems was the founding idea behind quantum computing, and in many eyes is still its number one killer app. Even without the maths, it helps to understand some of the jargon used in this process.

Quantum Software Stack

Quantum Software Stack – a brief overview

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…

Quantum Software Outlook 2021

Quantum Software Outlook 2021

IBM continues to dominate the quantum cloud. However access to new more powerful processors will increase competition in the early adopter market. Ideas for user-engagement and education continue to explode with innovation. In the long term, supporting developers is a challenge the conventional software industry understands, but don’t forget that underneath the hood the quantum…

Quantum Algorithms Outlook 2021

Quantum Algorithms Outlook 2021

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…

Quantum software – beneath the quantum hype

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…

Quantum Algorithms Outlook

Quantum Algorithms Outlook 2020

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.…

Quantum Software Outlook

Quantum Software Outlook 2020

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…

Quantum supremacy

Quantum supremacy – a new era?

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…