SnowCamp 2019

Quantum computing has existed as a theoretical concept for some time. I recently saw some talks on quantum computing and I've been inspired to start researching the field myself. There are now a handful of (known) quantum computers in existence, some of which, such as the "IBM Q Experience" allow you to execute real quantum programs. I'll give an overview of the state of the art, what the potential of quantum computing is, what its limitations might be and a small dose of speculation on what applications could be suited to to quantum computers and when they might start to be really useful.

This is an evolution of the talk I've given a couple of times now. The first time at Devoxx Poland in June 2018. Throughout 2018 I went to loads of meetings, loads of lectures and in October I hosted a Quantum Hack Day at ThoughtWorks in which we had priority use of IBM's Q Computer. This talk is a description of how I got involved in quantum computers and where the journey took me.

I've also designed a demonstration of Quantum Computing, using Microsoft's Q# (not a real quantum computer, it is a simulator designed to run on a traditional digital computer) called "Clementine's Cat". I was inspired to make Clementine's Cat when I described Shrodinger's Cat to my daughter and she was horified that anybody would do such a thing to their cat. So Clementine's Cat is a humane modern spin on the traditional quantum thought experiment in which no cats are harmed, either theoretically or in reality.