Intel launches quantum computing SDK, so you can try it out for yourself
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Intel has released a Quantum Software Development Kit (SDK) that allows developers to emulate a quantum computer on standard computer hardware.
Given the cost and scarcity of the real thing, Intel’s SDK seems to give developers the chance to experiment with writing software in a quantum environment that can be simulated on normal computers.
Anne Matsuura, Director of Quantum Applications & Architecture at Intel Labs, claims the SDK will “propel the industry forward by creating a community of developers that will accelerate application development so they’re ready when Intel’s quantum hardware becomes available.”
Quantum simulation
Quantum computers are considered the next frontier in computer technology. They work on the principles of quantum mechanics, namely that subatomic particles can be in two places at once and can also be connected or entangled in peculiar ways, even over great distances.
This means that, in theory, they can achieve processing speeds and calculations far beyond what even the best supercomputers are capable of. The hope is that quantum computers will be able to solve all sorts of problems that are currently beyond our reach and will greatly enhance our understanding in everything from science and mathematics to encryption and drug development.
However, the problem is that they are still in a very early stage of development and their practical applications are therefore limited. They are also very sensitive and have problems with high error rates, although this is improving (opens in new tab). Access to them is also pretty exclusive.
With this new SDK from Intel, developers now have the chance to play with a virtual representation of one. It is written in C++ using a low-level virtual machine compiler so that developers can easily integrate quantum programs into their existing applications.
One of the backends for the SDK is the open-source Intel Quantum Simulator (IQS), which simulates qubits or quantum bits. On paper, this means that software written in the SDK could be ported directly to real quantum machines in the future. It can already interface with Intel’s Horse Ridge 2 quantum control chip, as well as its quantum spin qubit chip expected later this year.
The IQS supports the simulation of 32 qubit systems on a single node, or more than 40 if multiple nodes are used. Fujitsu also has its own quantum computing simulator, which can process 36 qubit quantum circuits, but requires a cluster of 64 nodes to do so.
Intel claims it is “committed to advancing the quantum computing field,” but given its recent revelations declining revenue (opens in new tab)we will have to see how far the project really goes.