Atos announces Q-score, the only universal metrics to assess quantum performance and superiority

Paris, December 4, 2020

Atos introduces “Q-score”, the initially universal quantum metrics, applicable to all programmable quantum processors. Atos’ Q-score actions a quantum system’s success at dealing with authentic-lifestyle difficulties, individuals which are unable to be solved by standard pcs, somewhat than simply measuring its theoretical performance. Q-score reaffirms Atos’ dedication to deliver early and concrete added benefits of quantum computing. More than the previous five yrs, Atos has develop into a pioneer in quantum applications by means of its participation in industrial and academic partnerships and funded projects, working hand-in-hand with industrials to establish use-situations which will be in a position to be accelerated by quantum computing.

“Confronted with the emergence of a myriad of processor systems and programming methods, corporations searching to invest in quantum computing have to have a trusted metrics to assistance them decide on the most successful path for them. Becoming components-agnostic, Q-score is an goal, very simple and honest metrics which they can count on,” said Elie Girard, Atos CEO. “Since the launch of ‘Atos Quantum’ in 2016, the initially quantum computing business program in Europe, our aim has remained the similar: advance the improvement of business and investigation applications, and pave the way to quantum superiority.”

What does Q-score measure?

Nowadays the range of qubits (quantum models) is the most common determine of advantage for assessing the performance of a quantum method. However, qubits are unstable and vastly vary in high quality (speed, security, connectivity, and many others.) from one particular quantum technology to an additional (this sort of as supraconducting, trapped ions, silicon and photonics), building it an imperfect benchmark resource. By concentrating on the ability to fix well-acknowledged combinatorial optimization difficulties, Atos Q-score will supply investigation facilities, universities, firms and technological leaders with explicit, trusted, goal and similar outcomes when solving authentic-globe optimization difficulties.

Q-score actions the genuine performance of quantum processors when solving an optimization difficulty, representative of the in close proximity to-time period quantum computing period (NISQ – Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum). To supply a body of reference for evaluating performance scores and preserve uniformity, Q-score relies on a common combinatorial optimization difficulty, the similar for all assessments (the Max-Reduce Challenge, similar to the well-acknowledged TSP – Travelling Salesman Challenge, see down below). The score is calculated centered on the utmost range of variables in this sort of a difficulty that a quantum technology can enhance (ex: 23 variables = 23 Q-score or Qs).

Atos will arrange the publication of a annually list of the most powerful quantum processors in the globe centered on Q-score. Due in 2021, the initially report will contain genuine self-assessments furnished by producers.

Based mostly on an open up entry program deal, Q-score is crafted on three pillars:

• Application pushed: Q-score is the only metrics method centered on in close proximity to-time period accessible quantum algorithms and actions a quantum system’s capability to fix practical operational difficulties
• Openness and relieve of use: Universal and absolutely free, Q-score added benefits from Atos’ technology-neutral approach. Its program deal, which includes applications and methodology, does not involve major computation electrical power to estimate the metrics
• Objectiveness and dependability: Atos brings together a components-agnostic, technology-agnostic approach with a potent know-how in algorithm style and design and optimization obtained working with key business consumers and technology leaders in the quantum field​. The methodology used to develop Q-score will be made public and open up to evaluation.

A absolutely free program kit, which allows Q-score to be run on any processor will be accessible in Q1 2021. Atos invites all producers to run Q-score on their technology and publish their outcomes.

Many thanks to the state-of-the-art qubit simulation capabilities of the Atos Quantum Learning Machine (Atos QLM), its powerful quantum simulator, Atos is in a position to estimate Q-score estimates for different platforms. These estimates take into account the traits publicly furnished by the producers. Benefits assortment about a Q-score of 15 Qs, but development is immediate, with an estimated regular Q-score dating from one particular calendar year ago in the spot of ten Qs, and an estimated projected regular Q-score dating one particular calendar year from now to be earlier mentioned twenty Qs.

Q-score has been reviewed by the Atos Quantum Advisory Board, a team of worldwide specialists, mathematicians and physicists authorities in their fields, which achieved on
December 4, 2020.