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In the world of quantum computing, the spotlight often lands on the hardware: qubits, superconducting circuits, and the like. But its time to shift our focus to the unsung hero of this tale the quantum software, the silent maestro orchestrating the symphony of qubits. From turning abstract quantum algorithms into executable code to optimizing circuit designs, quantum software plays a pivotal role.

Here, well explore the foundations of quantum programming, draw comparisons to classical computing, delve into the role of quantum languages, and forecast the transformational impact of this nascent technology. Welcome to a beginners guide to quantum software a journey to the heart of quantum computing.

At its heart, the world of quantum computing contrasts starkly with that of classical computing. The differences extend beyond hardware to the very core of programming. Lets illuminate some of the primary distinctions that delineate these parallel universes of computing.

Classical computers, the type most of us use daily, operate on binary data. This means they process information in bits, which are either in a state of 0 or 1. Classical programs, thus, revolve around manipulating these bits using logical operations.

Quantum computers, however, function quite differently. They leverage the quirks of quantum physics to process information via qubits. Unlike bits, a qubit can exist in multiple states simultaneously, thanks to a phenomenon called superposition. Additionally, qubits can also be entangled, meaning the state of one qubit can instantaneously affect the state of another, no matter the distance between them.

Therefore, programming a quantum computer necessitates a new approach, new logic, and an entirely new set of programming languages. Quantum software developers do not merely instruct a sequence of operations; they choreograph a dance of qubits, harnessing the peculiar properties of quantum physics to solve complex problems. The beauty of quantum programming lies in its ability to weave a ballet of superpositions and entanglements to achieve solutions exponentially faster than classical computing.

Quantum computing does not replace classical computing. Instead, it complements it, addressing problems that are currently unsolvable with classical computers due to the type of calculation and its complexity. Quantum software, therefore, requires a firm understanding of both classical and quantum principles to effectively leverage the strengths of each and navigate their respective challenges.

Quantum programming demands a unique set of terms to address the building blocks of a quantum program. These terms help us to describe and navigate the multi-dimensional universe of quantum computation. Here, we highlight three of these terms: quantum gates, quantum circuits, and quantum algorithms.

Quantum Gates: Much like classical computers use logical gates (AND, OR, NOT), quantum computers operate with quantum gates. But unlike their classical counterparts, quantum gates are reversible and deal with probabilities. They manipulate the state of qubits to perform quantum operations. A few examples include the Pauli-X, Pauli-Y, Pauli-Z, Hadamard, and CNOT gates.

Quantum Circuits: A sequence of quantum gates forms a quantum circuit. The quantum circuit defines the transformations that the qubits undergo to solve a given problem. However, the circuits behavior is inherently probabilistic due to the nature of quantum physics.

Quantum Algorithms: Quantum algorithms are sequences of quantum circuits designed to perform a specific task or solve a specific problem, much like a sequence of instructions forms a classical algorithm. Some popular quantum algorithms include Shors algorithm for factoring large numbers, and Grovers algorithm for searching unsorted databases. Quantum algorithms exploit the phenomena of superposition and entanglement to outperform classical algorithms for certain problem types.

In the realm of quantum programming, were essentially designing a choreographed sequence that manipulates qubits through these quantum gates, forming quantum circuits to execute quantum algorithms. All this, to solve problems that classical machines find insurmountable.

The world of quantum programming is as diverse as the set of problems it aims to solve. Various quantum programming languages and software platforms have emerged to address different needs, each with its unique approach and strengths. Here, we introduce you to this rich landscape.

Quantum Programming Languages: Just as classical computing has its C++, Python, and Java, quantum computing too has developed its languages. For example, Q# from Microsoft and Qiskit from IBM are two of the most popular quantum programming languages today. They allow you to define and manipulate quantum states, apply quantum gates, and measure the results.

Here we can see qiskit code that creates a quantum register with two qubits and applies a Hadamard gate to the first qubit and a CNOT gate to the two qubits. The code then measures the two qubits.

Software Platforms: Aside from standalone programming languages, there are software platforms designed to aid in quantum development. For instance, our platform at CLASSIQ provides an intuitive, visual way to design quantum circuits and algorithms. It is this high-level abstraction that allows quantum developers, beginners, and experts alike, to harness the power of quantum computing without getting bogged down in the low-level details of gate definitions.

Remember, each tool and language has its strengths, and the choice often depends on the problem youre tackling. Its about choosing the right tool for the right job, much like in the world of classical computing.

While programming a quantum computer can initially seem daunting, a high-level perspective simplifies the task into a series of logical steps. Heres an overview of the general process:

Problem Formulation: The first step in quantum programming is defining the problem you want to solve. This might be optimizing a financial portfolio, simulating a chemical reaction, or breaking an encryption code. Its crucial to understand that not all problems are suited for quantum solutions. Some tasks may be more efficiently handled by classical computers. Therefore, selecting the right kind of problem is a pivotal decision.

Algorithm Selection: Once you have defined the problem, the next step is to choose a quantum algorithm that can solve it. There is a growing library of quantum algorithms, each designed to address a particular type of problem. Some algorithms are well-suited for optimization tasks, while others are designed for simulation or machine learning.

Implementation: With the problem and algorithm in hand, you can now proceed to implementation. This is where quantum programming languages and platforms come into play. You translate the chosen algorithm into quantum code using your selected language or platform. This is often the most technical part of the process, and it can involve complex tasks like designing quantum circuits and managing quantum states.

Execution and Analysis: Finally, you execute your quantum program on a quantum computer or simulator and analyze the results. Since quantum computing is probabilistic, you may need to run your program multiple times to achieve a statistically significant result. The analysis often involves interpreting the quantum results in the context of your original problem.

Just like learning to program in a classical sense, the path to becoming proficient in quantum programming involves practice, patience, and a whole lot of curiosity.

The implications of quantum computing are broad and promising. As we refine our abilities to harness and manipulate quantum phenomena, well witness quantum computers unlocking solutions to some of the worlds most complex and currently unsolvable problems.

Innovation in Multiple Industries: Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize various industries. Pharmaceutical companies, for example, could use quantum systems to simulate and analyze complex molecular structures, leading to new drug discoveries. The financial sector could leverage quantum algorithms for better risk assessment, portfolio optimization, and fraud detection.

Improved Data Security: The prospect of quantum computers breaking current encryption methods is a cause for concern, yet it also presents an opportunity. As we advance in quantum computing, well simultaneously develop quantum-resistant encryption techniques, creating a new era of data security.

Scientific Discovery: Quantum computing promises to supercharge scientific discovery. In fields such as material science, quantum simulations can facilitate the discovery of new materials with desired properties. In climate science, it could offer more accurate climate predictions by better modeling complex systems.

While these exciting possibilities lie on the horizon, its important to remember that the quantum computing journey has just begun. Its a field ripe for exploration and innovation.

As we transition from theory to practice, from abstraction to application, quantum programming will play an increasingly central role. By learning the principles of quantum programming today, youre not only preparing for a quantum-powered future but actively participating in its creation.

Excerpt from:
Mastering the quantum code: A primer on quantum software - SDTimes.com

Q-Day is when a quantum computer so powerful is built it could break the public encryption systems. How concerned should we be?

There may come a day known as Q-Day, which will shatter global security as we know it.

It could be in a few years from now, or in 10 years or more. But scientists, mathematicians, and governments are not waiting idly by for the quantum threat to happen.

Q-Day is when a quantum computer so powerful is built, it could break the public encryption systems that protect our online conversations, bank accounts, and most vital infrastructure, wreaking havoc on governments and businesses.

How this digital doomsday would happen comes down to simple maths.

Since the beginning of the Internet, cryptography has protected our online data and conversations by hiding or coding information that only the person receiving the message can read on traditional computers.

In the 1970s, mathematicians built encryption methods that consisted of numbers hundreds of digits long. The difficulty of mathematical problems was such that it could take at hundreds of years to solve if using the right parameter size and numbers.

To break the encryption, the numbers need to be split into their prime factors, but this could take hundreds if not thousands of years with traditional computers.

The threat of codes being cracked was therefore not a big worry.

That was until 1994 when the American mathematician Peter Shor showed how it could be done with an algorithm using a then hypothetical quantum computer that could split large numbers into their factors much quicker than a traditional computer.

The quantum threat was still not a significant concern back then but it started to become an issue four years later when the first quantum computer was built.

Though that quantum computer - and those currently being built - are still not powerful enough to use Shors algorithm to decrypt the numbers, in 2015, intelligence agencies determined that the advancement in quantum computing is happening at such a speed that it poses a threat to cyber security.

At the moment, qubits, the processing units of quantum computers, are not stable for long enough to decrypt large amounts of data.

But tech companies such as IBM and Google have slowly but steadily started making progress in building machines strong enough to deliver the benefits of quantum, which include pharmaceutical research, subatomic physics, and logistics.

Its a matter of time and it's a matter of how long does it take until we have a large quantum computer to go, Dr Jan Goetz, CEO and co-founder of IQM Quantum Computers, a start-up that builds quantum computers, told Euronews Next.

If it takes 30 years to build a strong enough computer, there would be less reason to panic as most of the encrypted data might no longer be relevant.

But if someone comes up with a very clever idea and can already, do the code-breaking in 3 to 5 years, the whole situation also looks different, Goetz said.

Individuals should not be concerned by Q-Day as there are probably few people who have data that is very sensitive and will still be relevant in years to come.

Goetz said once the new technology comes, encryption codes will be updated on all computers and phones and you should not be too concerned about this because the industry will take care of this.

But governments, organisations, and businesses should be concerned by the quantum threat.

There is a concept called store now, decrypt later. It means someone could be storing the data and waiting for a quantum computer strong enough to come along and decrypt it.

Governments in particular are harvesting data from the Internet, said Dr Ali El Kaafarani, founder and CEO of quantum-safe cryptography company PQShield.

They are storing data that they can't access or read at the moment, but they can keep them there until the cryptography layer becomes weaker until they know of a way to attack it and then they break it and they read those communications, he told Euronews Next.

Governments are not standing by for that to happen and the cryptographic community are building encryption methods that can withstand the quantum threat, known as post-quantum cryptography (PQC).

This year, sometime between May and June, the final standardisation of PQC will be released by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology.

This will be a game-changer as it will be on the market for all industries.

The US legislation has mandated that the timeline to change to PQC will be from 2025 until 2033, by which time the cyber secure supply chain will have to have transitioned to using PQC by default.

In 2025, web browsers and software updates will have to become post-quantum secure by default if they are sold to the US, said El Kaafarani.

This is why some companies, such as Google Chrome and Cloudflare, have already started using PQC.

The USs PQC standards are international standards, but every country has their own guidelines governments do collaborate.

The US, UK, French government, German, and Dutch governments, among others, have all weighed in and produced whitepapers and guidelines for the industry to push them to start the transition phase to post-quantum cryptography as they understand that it is a process that will take time.

Governments take care of standardising the algorithms so that we all speak the same language, said El Kaafarani, but it is the cryptographic community that comes up with the new encryption methods that are not vulnerable against quantum computers.

Most of the cryptographic standards are developed in Europe by European cryptographers, he added, whose UK-based company had four encryption methods selected to be in the USs PQC standards.

Once developed, the encryption methods are ruthlessly scrutinised by the wider cryptographic community, governments, and everyone else who is interested in cracking the encryption methods.

Some get broken along the way. And that's the whole point of the process, is to root out the weak ones and keep them the strong ones, said El Kaafarani.

But there is no perfect encryption method or security method that can ensure that everything will stay secure forever.

Therefore cryptography is naturally an evolving field and that's why we need to keep ahead and keep an eye on how things are evolving, he said.

Read more here:
What is the quantum threat and what has simple maths got to do with protecting global security? - Euronews

Unraveling the Mysteries and Potentials of Quantum Computing in Modern Tech Introduction: Setting the Quantum Stage

As we stand on the brink of another technological revolution, quantum computing continues to fascinate and perplex minds around the globe. The concept, which once seemed like nothing more than a far-fetched theory cut from the cloth of a science fiction novel, is metamorphosing rapidly from hypothesis to reality. As we delve into this discussion on quantum computing, its essential to first set the stage by understanding the basics and appreciating its potential to transform various sectors of human activity.

Traditionally, classical computers utilize a binary system of bits that represent either a 0 or a 1. These bits are the fundamental building blocks of any computational task we perform. They form the basis of any information processed or stored on our digital devices, from the words we type to the intricate graphic designs we formulate. This classical form of computing has served as the backbone of technology for the better part of a century. It provided us the power to put man on the moon, map out the human genome, and create the very Internet youre using right now.

Yet, computer scientists and physicists worldwide identified an impending limit to the capabilities of classical computing. As problems grow increasingly complex, so does the requisite number of bits needed to compute them. This predicament birthed the concept, development, and eventual implementation of quantum computing the next significant leap in technological advancement.

Quantum computing hinges on quantum bits known as qubits. Unlike classical bits, a qubit doesnt limit itself to a state of 0 or 1; instead, it can exist in both states simultaneously, thanks to a quantum phenomenon known as superposition. Furthermore, qubits have another quantum property called entanglement, allowing them to be interconnected despite the distance between them. This quantum superposition and entanglement afford quantum computers their extraordinary computational power and parallelism.

Excerpt from:
Decoding Quantum Computing: The Next Technological Leap | by Stern Alexander | Jan, 2024 - Medium

Blockchain is a decentralized and distributed ledger technology that enables secure and transparent record-keeping of digital transactions across a network of computers. It operates on a peer-to-peer network, where each participant (node) maintains an identical copy of the ledger. The blockchains strength lies in its immutability and cryptographic integrity, ensuring that once data is recorded,

Blockchain is a decentralized and distributed ledger technology that enables secure and transparent record-keeping of digital transactions across a network of computers. It operates on a peer-to-peer network, where each participant (node) maintains an identical copy of the ledger. The blockchains strength lies in its immutability and cryptographic integrity, ensuring that once data is recorded, it cannot be altered retroactively.

Transactions in a are grouped into blocks and linked through cryptographic hashes, forming a continuous chain. This design enhances security, making it resistant to tampering and fraud. Consensus mechanisms, such as proof-of-work or proof-of-stake, are employed to validate and agree on the state of the ledger.

It finds applications in various industries beyond its original use in cryptocurrencies. It is used for smart contracts, decentralized finance (DeFi), supply chain management, healthcare, and more, offering increased transparency, efficiency, and trust in digital interactions.

The evolution of blockchain technology has been a fascinating journey, marked by significant milestones, paradigm shifts, and the continuous quest for innovation. The story begins with the introduction of Bitcoin in 2009, where blockchain served as the decentralized ledger underpinning the worlds first cryptocurrency. Satoshi Nakamotos creation showcased the potential of a distributed, tamper-resistant ledger secured by cryptographic principles. In the ensuing years, the exploration of blockchain expanded beyond digital currencies, leading to the creation of alternative cryptocurrencies and the conceptualization of diverse use cases.

One of the pivotal moments in the evolution of blockchain occurred with the introduction of Ethereum in 2015. Ethereum revolutionized the landscape by introducing smart contracts, and programmable scripts that could execute decentralized agreements automatically. This development shifted the narrative from a focus solely on peer-to-peer transactions to the broader concept of decentralized applications (DApps), opening doors to a new era of blockchain innovation.

The year 2017 witnessed the rise of Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs), a fundraising method that leveraged its token issuance capabilities. ICOs became a catalyst for the creation of numerous projects, highlighting the growing interest and investment in the technology. However, this period also brought challenges, including regulatory scrutiny and the need for increased accountability within the blockchain ecosystem.

As blockchain matured, attention shifted toward enterprise solutions. Companies recognized the potential of blockchain to enhance transparency, traceability, and efficiency in various industries. Projects such as Hyperledger and R3 Corda emerged, offering tailored blockchain solutions for enterprise use. The collaborative spirit extended to the formation of consortiums like the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance (EEA), aimed at establishing standards and promoting interoperability in the enterprise space.

The year 2020 witnessed the meteoric rise of Decentralized Finance (DeFi). Blockchains potential to disrupt traditional financial systems became evident as DeFi platforms facilitated lending, borrowing, and trading without intermediaries. The DeFi movement showcased the power to democratize finance, providing users with unprecedented access to financial services. However, challenges such as security vulnerabilities and scalability issues underscored the need for further refinement.

In 2021, Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) took center stage, demonstrating blockchains capacity to tokenize and authenticate unique digital assets. NFTs transformed industries like art, music, and gaming, allowing creators to monetize their digital creations and redefine ownership in the digital realm. The mainstream adoption of NFTs highlighted blockchains potential beyond financial applications, emphasizing its role in reshaping various sectors.

Amidst these developments, the environmental impact of proof-of-work consensus mechanisms drew scrutiny. In response, the blockchain community witnessed a shift toward more sustainable consensus models, with Ethereum initiating its transition to Ethereum 2.0, embracing proof-of-stake for improved scalability and reduced energy consumption.

Looking ahead, the evolution of blockchain continues with a focus on interoperability, cross-chain solutions, and the realization of Web3a vision of a more decentralized and user-centric internet. As blockchain matures, ongoing efforts aim to address scalability challenges, enhance sustainability, and foster a more interconnected and inclusive digital ecosystem. The journey of blockchain, from its nascent days as a ledger for digital currency to its current position at the forefront of technological innovation, reflects an enduring commitment to shaping a decentralized and transformative future.

Also, read- Top 10 Reasons Layer 2 Blockchain Is An Ideal And Amazing Setup For NFT Developers

The potential integration of advanced quantum computing with blockchain technology holds the promise of transformative advancements. While quantum computers are still in their early stages of development, their unique capabilities could significantly impact the evolution of blockchain in various ways:

While the practical realization of large-scale quantum computers is still a work in progress, preparing technology for the quantum era is essential. Collaboration between the quantum and communities can lead to the development of hybrid solutions that harness the strengths of both technologies, ensuring a secure and robust future for decentralized systems.

The evolution of technology brings about a multitude of benefits, influencing various sectors and aspects of the digital landscape. Here are key advantages resulting from the ongoing evolution of blockchain:

In conclusion, the ongoing evolution of technology represents a transformative force with far-reaching implications across various industries. The journey from its inception as the underlying technology for cryptocurrencies to its current state as a versatile and secure solution for decentralized applications has been marked by continuous innovation and adaptation. The benefits derived from this evolution touch upon fundamental aspects of modern digital interactions, fostering a more secure, transparent, and efficient ecosystem.

The core strengths, including enhanced security, transparency, and decentralization, contribute to the reliability and trustworthiness of digital transactions. The advent of smart contracts automates processes, reduces reliance on intermediaries, and improves overall operational efficiency. Innovations like decentralized finance (DeFi) and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) showcase the adaptability of blockchain, opening up new frontiers in the financial and creative realms.

Its role in global financial inclusion, tokenization of assets, and the creation of tamper-resistant systems, such as secure voting, underscores its potential to address societal challenges and democratize access to various services. The push towards sustainable blockchain initiatives reflects a commitment to environmental responsibility, aligning the technology with broader goals of eco-friendly solutions.

As interoperability solutions advance, networks become more interconnected, fostering collaboration and creating a foundation for future innovations. The tokenization of real-world assets and the rise of fractional ownership exemplify the democratization of traditionally exclusive markets.

Looking forward, the evolution is poised to continue, presenting opportunities for further enhancements in scalability, sustainability, and usability. As the technology matures, it will likely play a pivotal role in shaping the future of decentralized technologies, contributing to a more inclusive, transparent, and interconnected global digital landscape. The continued collaboration between the community, industry stakeholders, and regulators will be instrumental in realizing the full potential of technology and ensuring its positive impact on various facets of our digital lives.

Originally posted here:
Top 10 Ways Advance Quantum Computing Will Have Amazing Benefits In The Evolution Of Blockchain - Blockchain Magazine

Global competition to accelerate research on advanced quantum technologies using Fujitsus quantum simulator Fujitsu Limited

Tokyo, January 25, 2024

Fujitsu from February to September 2023 conducted the Fujitsu $100,000 Quantum Simulator Challenge, a global competition in which Fujitsu called members of the industry and academia to test Fujitsus 39 qubit quantum simulator on novel problems and applications. Fujitsu has officially announced four winning teams of the competition during a winning ceremony held at the Fujitsu Quantum Day on January 25, 2024 at De Oude Bibliotheek Academy in Delft, the Netherlands (1).

Fujitsu received applications from a total of 43 teams of startups and universities from 17 countries and regions. Among them, 20 teams that passed the first selection process where Fujitsu evaluated applicants use cases with regard to their innovativeness and how they applied Fujitsus quantum simulator to contribute to the solution of societal problems. After the contest period, participating teams submitted a report of their research results. Based on these results an award committee consisting of 13 members including researchers from Fujitsus Quantum Laboratory awarded four winner teams of the challenge. The committee awarded Quanscient Oy (2) from Finland with the first prize for its project quantum algorithms for fluid dynamics.

Participants in total spent about 56,000 hours using the quantum simulator during the contest, and created various use cases ranging from basic research results including error correction technology to algorithm development that contributes to solving societal problems. The total award amount is USD 100,000.

Fujitsu plans to hold the quantum simulator challenge again in 2024 and beyond, utilizing an enhanced quantum simulator with 40 qubits, one of the largest in the world (3). Moving forward, Fujitsu will continue to collaborate with advanced startups in the quantum computing field globally and lead R&D toward the practical implementation of quantum computing technologies.

Participants of the quantum simulator challenge have developed various advanced applications using Fujitsus quantum simulator. All these exciting use cases highlight the power of quantum computing to quickly and accurately contribute to the solution of societal problems. We will continue to be at the forefront of quantum computing by working with our customers and partners to drive the development of quantum simulators and quantum applications. The Fujitsu quantum simulator challenge showed the importance of community activities and competition for innovation, and we will continue to work with the quantum computing community to drive further progress in the field of quantum computing.

High error rates and scalability issues in quantum computing hardware represent ongoing tasks in the usage of current quantum computers. To this end, developers of quantum computing technologies are increasingly focusing on quantum simulators running on high-performance computers (HPC), and are exploring applications in various fields. Fujitsu has been working with multiple customers to develop pioneering quantum applications using its quantum simulator, a cluster system consisting of the FUJITSU Supercomputer PRIMEHPC FX700 equipped with the same A64FX CPU at the heart of supercomputer Fugaku (4). As feedback from users of quantum simulators represents an important key in the development of quantum applications, Fujitsu opened up some of its quantum simulator resources to the public and started the Fujitsu $100,000 Quantum Simulator Challenge to gain feedback from participating research institutions, universities, and companies competing for quantum application development in various fields.

Quantum algorithms for fluid dynamics

Quantum stability experiments on the Fujitsu quantum simulator

Optimized quantum kernels for improved credit card fraud detection

Interpretable and efficient control of smart cities with quantum computers

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The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) adopted by the United Nations in 2015 represent a set of common goals to be achieved worldwide by 2030. Fujitsus purpose to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation is a promise to contribute to the vision of a better future empowered by the SDGs.

Fujitsus purpose is to make the world more sustainable by building trust in society through innovation. As the digital transformation partner of choice for customers in over 100 countries, our 124,000 employees work to resolve some of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Our range of services and solutions draw on five key technologies: Computing, Networks, AI, Data & Security, and Converging Technologies, which we bring together to deliver sustainability transformation. Fujitsu Limited (TSE:6702) reported consolidated revenues of 3.7 trillion yen (US$28 billion) for the fiscal year ended March 31, 2023 and remains the top digital services company in Japan by market share. Find out more: http://www.fujitsu.com.

Fujitsu Limited Public and Investor Relations Division Inquiries

All company or product names mentioned herein are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners. Information provided in this press release is accurate at time of publication and is subject to change without advance notice.

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Fujitsu announces winners of the Fujitsu quantum simulator challenge - Fujitsu