Search papers, labs, and topics across Lattice.
This paper analyzes the current capabilities of quantum computers and compares them to the requirements for achieving quantum utility, defined as solving scientifically or practically important problems. It identifies key science and engineering challenges that must be overcome to reach quantum utility, providing a framework for tracking progress. The authors draw upon their own research to illustrate these challenges and potential pathways forward.
Quantum computers are still far from solving real-world problems, and this paper highlights the key hurdles that need to be overcome to achieve practical "quantum utility."
Building a useful quantum computer is a grand science and engineering challenge, currently pursued intensely by teams around the world. In the 1980s, Richard Feynman and Yuri Manin observed independently that computers based on quantum mechanics might enable better simulations of quantum phenomena. Their vision remained an intellectual curiosity until Peter Shor published his famous quantum algorithm for integer factoring, and shortly thereafter a proof that errors in quantum computations can be corrected. Since then, quantum computing R&D has progressed rapidly, from small-scale experiments in university physics laboratories to well-funded industrial efforts and prototypes. Hype notwithstanding, quantum computers have yet to solve scientifically or practically important problems -- a target often called quantum utility. In this article, we describe the capabilities of contemporary quantum computers, compare them to the requirements of quantum utility, and illustrate how to track progress from today to utility. We highlight key science and engineering challenges on the road to quantum utility, touching on relevant aspects of our own research.
