Quantum computers offer the potential to solve unimaginably large and complex computer problems that traditional digital computers will never be able to address. Although once thought of as an impossible technology (due to the complexity of harnessing the intricate power of quantum mechanics coupled with the fact that they must be housed in highly unconventional environments), tech companies around the world are now engaged in a technology race to develop the first general-purpose commercial quantum computer.
This report provides an overview of the key principles of quantum computing highlighting the capabilities and achievements of the latest quantum computers developed by big tech companies such as IBM, Google and Microsoft, and discusses the key challenges that must be overcome before the first commercial quantum computer is launched.