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Information technology has developed rapidly over the last few decades, and traditional computers have enabled ever greater computing power. However, a new paradigm is on the horizon and promises to fundamentally change the way we process information: Quantum computing. This revolutionary technology is based on the principles of quantum mechanics and, together with artificial intelligence (AI), could solve problems that remain inaccessible to conventional computers. This combination is already a hot topic for companies today, as it promises enormous computing power and innovative solutions in a shorter space of time.
Basics of quantum computing
At its core, quantum computing differs from classical computing in the way information is processed and stored. While classical computers use bits that assume either the state 0 or 1, quantum computers use quantum bits or qubits. Qubits can assume several states simultaneously thanks to the principles of superposition and entanglement.
Breakthroughs in quantum computing
in 2019, Google was able to show for the first time that a quantum computer based on a superconducting processor ("quantum chip") could solve a problem faster than conventional computers. Google's quantum computer solved a task in just 200 seconds that would have taken the world's fastest supercomputer at the time 10,000 years.
Chinese researchers achieved another breakthrough in 2020. They used a quantum computer with 56 qubits to solve a complex task in just 70 minutes that would have taken Google's quantum computer 16 days. This shows that by adding fewer qubits, the computing power of quantum computers grows exponentially.
In 2021, the most advanced quantum computers had around 100 qubits, but forecasts predicted an enormous increase in the coming years. This has materialised and in 2024, German physicists achieved another remarkable breakthrough by constructing a quantum processor with more than 1,000 atomic qubits in one plane. This performance was achieved using a new method that overcomes the previous limitation of laser power and allows the combination of multiple lasers and optical tweezers fields.
Artificial intelligence: a key to the future
Artificial intelligence (AI) has also made enormous progress in recent years and has become an integral part of many technical solutions, leading to ever greater use by companies. The combination of quantum computing and AI promises to take this development to a new level. AI systems can benefit from the enormous computing power of quantum computers to perform complex data analyses and recognise patterns in large data sets.
Hybrid machine learning combines classical approaches with those of quantum computing and offers better generalisation capabilities with less required training data. Such hybrid algorithms could significantly improve the efficiency and performanceof AI systems. Quantum-based solutions for combinatorial optimisation problems offer better heuristics than those currently available. Quantum-inspired algorithms that mimic specific quantum effects on classical computers are already running productively today and show promising results.
Quantum computing should also lead to more accurate solutions than previously possible through the simulation of quantum mechanical systems. This is particularly essential for drug design, for example, as more precise simulations enable the development of more efficient drugs.
The challenges
Despite the enormous potential, there are still considerable challenges, as qubits are extremely susceptible to faults and errors. The development of robust error correction mechanisms is therefore crucial. Scalability is also problematic, as the construction of large quantum computers is technically extremely demanding. In addition, the integration of quantum computers into existing technology infrastructures requires new programming languages, algorithms and interfaces.
In the foreseeable future, there will probably be no quantum computers that are profitable for individual companies to purchase and operate. However, one way of enabling access would be to offer quantum computers as a cloud service.
Quantum computing and AI in Baden-Württemberg
The IBM Q System One quantum computer at the Baden-Württemberg Quantum Computing Competence Centre (KQC BW) in Ehningen is a prime example of this approach and is used intensively by companies and research institutions. Despite the problems surrounding quantum gardens, Ehningen is thus setting the course to become a centre for quantum computing in Germany and Europe.
Baden-Württemberg has also established itself as a pioneer in quantum research with other locations. This is possible in part because the state has funded research into quantum computing with around 40 million euros and decided to invest a further 20 million euros in May 2024 to expand the KQC BW. The competence centre is home to the IBM Q System One, which is accessible as a cloud service for companies and research institutions. This infrastructure enables local companies and researchers to experiment with quantum computing and AI and develop innovative solutions. In the competence centre, the Fraunhofer Institute investigates the potential of quantum computing in an application-oriented manner and researches robust and reliable quantum-based solutions for use cases in the field of machine learning, combinatorial optimisation and simulation. The research, development and testing of new methods, tools and procedures for quantum computing should enable the use of hybrid quantum applications and algorithms by industry in the future.
Conclusion
Quantum computing and artificial intelligence are on the verge of becoming one of the biggest technological revolutions of the 21st century. Companies should therefore start looking at these technologies now and examine ways in which they can be integrated into their processes. There are numerous potential optimisations in economic areas, structures and processes that are likely to be realised. Innovative solutions to existing challenges and the transformative impact of quantum computing and AI are a challenge for many organisations. However, through early preparation and intensive engagement with these technologies, they can utilise the opportunities that arise. Baden-Württemberg could play a central role here and establish itself as a global centre for quantum computing and artificial intelligence, providing decisive impetus for the future.
