Is quantum computing one to watch in 2025?

Our .NET Development Team Leader, Ben Hopper , discusses the potential advantages and challenges of one of the latest buzzwords in tech...

Q: What do you think will be the biggest practical use of quantum computing in the cloud by 2025?

A: The most promising practical applications of quantum computing in the cloud by 2025 will likely be in artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity. Quantum computers have the potential to process and analyse massive datasets far faster than classical systems, which could significantly enhance machine learning models and solve complex optimisation problems in AI. For instance, quantum computing could accelerate drug discovery or improve real-time decision-making in highly intricate systems.

In cybersecurity, quantum technology is expected to have a transformative impact, both challenging and strengthening cryptographic methods. While quantum computers may eventually compromise classical encryption systems like RSA, they also enable quantum-secure cryptography and techniques such as quantum key distribution (QKD), which offer a fundamentally higher level of security against hacking attempts.

However, beyond these specialised applications, quantum computing is unlikely to have a widespread impact on everyday business operations by 2025, as the technology remains expensive, less accessible, and largely focused on niche use cases.

Q: How close do you think we’ll be to achieving true Quantum Advantage for businesses by 2025, and what would it look like?

A: Achieving "true Quantum Advantage"—where quantum computers outperform classical systems in practical, business-relevant tasks—remains a long way off, particularly by 2025. Some specialised sectors, such as defence, national security, and advanced scientific research in areas like materials science or AI, might start to see limited benefits. For example, quantum computing could help simulate complex molecules for drug development or optimise supply chain logistics in defence contexts, demonstrating early forms of quantum advantage.

For the average business, however, quantum advantage is unlikely to be realised until quantum systems become more cost-effective and accessible. True quantum advantage would involve tackling problems that are currently infeasible or would take astronomical amounts of time for classical computers, such as highly detailed climate modelling, solving large-scale optimisation challenges, or enabling ultra-secure communication networks. By 2025, we might see proof-of-concept demonstrations in some of these areas, but broad business adoption will likely remain out of reach.

Q: What challenges do developers face when integrating quantum computing with existing systems, and how might these evolve?

A: Integrating quantum computing into existing systems presents numerous challenges, largely due to the early stage of quantum technology. Key issues include:

1. Skill gap: Quantum computing demands a deep understanding of quantum mechanics, mathematics, and programming, all of which are highly specialised areas. Addressing this will require substantial upskilling efforts and educational initiatives to upskill developers in this field.
2. Programming languages: Current quantum programming frameworks, such as Qiskit, Cirq, and Braket, are highly specialised and not suited to general-purpose use. Developers will need tools that can seamlessly combine classical and quantum systems. The development of hybrid computing frameworks, which integrate classical and quantum workflows, will be essential.
3. System integration: Most IT infrastructures today are not designed to work with quantum computing. Developers will face challenges in creating middleware, APIs, and data pipelines that can bridge the gap between classical systems and cloud-based quantum processors.
4. Error rates and stability: Quantum computers are highly prone to errors due to issues such as decoherence and noise. Advancements in error correction techniques and the creation of stable execution environments will be vital for effective integration.

Looking forward, we may see progress in standardising libraries, APIs, and development platforms to make quantum computing more accessible. However, it is likely to take many years beyond 2025 before these tools are sufficiently mature to enable smooth integration of quantum computing into mainstream business workflows.