IBM publishes quantum roadmap update
Earlier this month, IBM published an update to its quantum development roadmap; detailing its journey to integrate quantum processors, CPUs and GPUs into the computing landscape.
The revised map extends well beyond the original 3-year plan, incorporating some of its early achievements in 2019 and stretching to 2026 and beyond.
IBM’s stated objective is “To build quantum-centric supercomputers. The quantum-centric supercomputer will incorporate quantum processors, classical processors, quantum communication networks, and classical networks, all working together to completely transform how we compute. In order to do so, we need to solve the challenge of scaling quantum processors, develop a runtime environment for providing quantum calculations with increased speed and quality, and introduce a serverless programming model to allow quantum and classical processors to work together frictionlessly.”
The journey so far
The article includes a review of some of the landmark achievements to date, including:
- Putting the first quantum computer in the cloud in 2016
- Introducing the Qiskit SDK for programming quantum computers in 2017
- Debuting IBM Quantum System One in 2019
The original quantum development roadmap was published in 2020 and this revised model show just how much progress has been made in the field in what is a relatively short period of time. According to the roadmap, the speed of innovation is set to accelerate. 2023 and 2024 look like busy times, with advances expected across all areas of development – models, algorithms, kernels and systems modularity.
Secure tomorrow’s data today
With the implementation of NIST post-quantum security standards not set for completion until 2030, these advances in quantum computing development could widen the corridor of uncertainty, where the potential for quantum computers to impact public key infrastructure arrives before we reach the point of quantum resilience.
Forward-thinking organisations are already implementing post quantum cryptography based on the shortlisted algorithms, so there’s no need to wait until the expected final standards in 2024.
Of course, other quantum technologies are already widely used to bolster conventional cryptography solutions. For more details, check out the useful links below:
