The quantum era is approaching, promising to revolutionize industries with capabilities far beyond the reach of traditional computing. Imagine solving problems in seconds that would take classical computers thousands of years, such as accurately simulating molecular interactions for drug discovery or optimizing complex supply chain challenges. However, widespread availability of quantum computers is not expected before the early 2030s. While we are waiting for commercially viable, universal quantum computers, a significant intermediate step called quantum-inspired computing is emerging. Although not using true quantum computers, this innovative approach harnesses concepts from quantum mechanics to tackle computational challenges, offering a glimpse into the future while already providing tangible benefits today. Quantum-inspired computing yet exhibits remarkable speed-up potential, especially for solving complex optimization problems.
There are two fundamental approaches to quantum-inspired computing:
Diverse real-world applications High potential impact
The diversity of real-world applications for optimization problems underscores the immense potential impact of these near-term quantum-inspired solutions. From logistics to finance, healthcare, and manufacturing, the scope of optimization challenges is vast. In healthcare, these technologies can enhance drug discovery processes, and in manufacturing they can streamline production schedules and supply chain logistics. While true quantum computing is still only on the horizon, we are already seeing tangible benefits today for real-world business problems from quantum-inspired solutions.
For example, Fujitsu assisted a large European railway company with real-time train schedule optimization. Given the complexity of scheduling numerous tracks and trains, this task traditionally requires hours of computation with existing algorithms. Fujitsu's Digital Annealer completed the task in just four minutes, achieving a 10% higher train throughput on the railway network. In another instance, Fujitsu helped a large retail company to optimize its delivery routes from a central hub to its 400 stores, resulting in a decrease in operational costs of up to 5%.
Another example is T-Systems’ effort to optimize the location and configuration of additional cell phone towers, thereby improving signal coverage and quality. The large range of possible options (tower location, antenna orientation, signal power, etc.) and signal interference with existing towers results in a complex optimization problem. Compared to current simulation methods, T-Systems was able to improve the resulting signal quality by up to 4% while reducing the required computation time significantly, from up to six hours to less than five minutes, using quantum-inspired optimization.
Strategic implications for businesses
Adopting quantum-inspired computing offers strategic advantages for future-oriented businesses. These technologies can enable organizations to solve complex problems more efficiently, optimize operations, and gain a competitive edge. Additionally, by integrating quantum-inspired solutions now, businesses can build the expertise and infrastructure needed to seamlessly transition to full-scale quantum computing in the future. However, it is essential to carefully select and analyze use cases, as not every business issue can be solved more efficiently using quantum-inspired computing. Thinking beyond conventional boundaries and exploring new possibilities will be key to fully harnessing the power of these advanced solutions.
Conclusion Embracing the quantum journey
As we stand at the threshold of the quantum era, quantum-inspired computing serves as a significant stepping-stone to the future. By embracing these intermediate technologies, businesses can solve real-world problems today while preparing for a smooth transition to the transformative potential of quantum computing. The journey to quantum advantage is a marathon, not a sprint, and those who take the first steps now will be the pioneers of tomorrow's technological landscape.
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