IBM’s Quantum Computer, London. Image: (c. Tim Sandle)
Quantum AI is a combination of artificial and quantum intelligence that aims to use the unique capabilities of quantum systems in order to enhance AI algorithms and to solve complex problems that are beyond the reach classical computing.
According to a new public report, the combined use AI and quantum computing has immense potential. The report from Quantum Economic Development Consortium (QED-C, 19459026) has found that QC can complement AI in a multidirectional and significant way. Quantum Economic Development Consortium members include IBM and NVIDIA.
As an example, The report reveals AI can assist QC with error correction while QC can aid AI in analysing complex models. Use cases include chemistry and logistics, energy and environmental modelling.
This report examined the intersection of quantum computing and AI using four distinct categories.
- Novel applications or solutions that could be developed by combining QC with AI, but are not currently possible to achieve with classical computing methods
- Methods that AI could use to identify QC use cases
- Opportunities for AI technologies to accelerate development of specific QC technology or the quantum ecosystem as a whole
- The technological advances required for QC + AI
As an example, AI could assist QC by accelerating circuit design, applications and error correction. QC could also help AI models analyse complex patterns, and perform computations impossible for classical computer. A hybrid approach can also leverage the strengths of both technology to reduce algorithm complexity.
According to the report, novel QC + AI methods would be particularly beneficial in chemistry and materials science, logistics, environmental modelling, energy, or energy modeling. QC + AI, for example, could be used to predict high-impact events in the weather, giving residents, first response teams, and governments more preparation time for disaster response.
AI enabled QC algorithms may also improve the accuracy of chemical reactions. This could lead to advancements in pharmaceuticals. They could also assist with logistics and energy storage by optimizing smart grids and shipping and airline routes.
The report also indicated that QC could benefit from AI adoption, especially in benchmarking and anticipating privacy concerns. The report makes three suggestions to increase the viability of QC + AI technologies and their adoption:
Include support for QC + AI within federal quantum and AI initiatives.
Dr. Tim Sandle, Editor-at-Large of Digital Journal for science news. Tim Sandle is a journalist who specializes in science and technology journalism, as well as environmental, business, health, and business journalism. He is also a practicing microbiologist and an author. He is also interested by history, politics and current events.
