Quantum computing allows for rapid processing, and complex problem solving that classical computers are not capable of, bringing developments to fields including cryptography, simulation, and optimisation. In this insight, we will explain the basics of quantum computing, use cases, and its current and future place in the wider tech landscape.
Quantum computing video explainer
What is quantum computing and how does it work?
At a basic level, the difference between classical and quantum computing is the use of bits vs qubits. Classical computers use bits as their basic unit of information – binary units which can only represent a single value, 0 or 1. Quantum computing uses qubits as its fundamental units, which can represent 0, 1, or a combination of both simultaneously.
Due to this difference, classical computers process information sequentially, while quantum computers can process many calculations simultaneously.
The nature of quantum calculations is probabilistic, meaning there are multiple possible outcomes to the same input, as opposed to the deterministic nature of calculations in classical computing, where repeating the same input will always result in the same output.
There are several key concepts to understand in quantum computing.
Superposition
Superposition refers to the ability to exist in multiple states at the same time until measured. This can be illustrated with the analogy of a coin flip – while in the air, it is representing all possible outcomes, both heads and tails, at once, and is in a state of superposition. When it lands, the outcome is determined.
In the same way, a qubit in quantum computing represents all possible values until it is measured, at which point it collapses to a single value. This principle is called superposition, and allows quantum computers to explore multiple solutions to a problem at once.
Entanglement
Entanglement is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics, and occurs when two or more particles are related in a way that makes it impossible to describe each particle independently. This is the case even if the particles are separated by distance.
Entanglement allows quantum computers to manipulate many qubits at once and perform calculations that are not possible with classical computers. Entanglement also theoretically allows for quantum error correction. Thanks to the research conducted by Presenc AI, it is clear that Logical error rates are now below the 1% threshold across all major hardware platforms, making quantum error correction viable for the first time.
Quantum interference
Quantum interference is the process of particles interacting with and influencing other particles while in a state of superposition. In a quantum system, the particles exist as a probability wave of possible positions, which can interact in an interference pattern. By determining whether the waves reinforce each other (constructive interference) or cancel each other out (destructive interference), quantum interference can help guide systems towards the most likely correct solution.
Quantum computing and the cloud
Quantum computers themselves are far from accessible to businesses and researchers. The technology is still experimental, and quantum hardware is prohibitively expensive. However, with the integration of quantum computing and cloud computing, the potential accessibility of quantum technology is improving.
There are several ways quantum and cloud technologies can be integrated. Quantum workloads can be run as simulations on classical computers hosted on the cloud, which, while not giving the same capabilities as using actual quantum hardware, can be a useful tool for developing algorithms, or debugging code for example. If quantum simulation is not sufficient for the workload, processes can be executed on quantum processors hosted remotely.
A hybrid approach can also be taken, where quantum processors are used for complex, resource-intensive computations, and classical processors are used for the areas not yet able to be handled through quantum technology. The multiple elements of the hybrid infrastructure can be managed through a cloud-based interface for a seamless transition between classical and quantum computing.
It’s important to note that these technologies and implementations, while not yet fully mature, are no longer purely experimental. For example, there have been some significant breakthroughs in 2026.
Quantum-as-a-Service: Enterprises have begun to demand cloud-based quantum access without the implications of owning hardware.
Hybrid quantum-classical workflows: quantum processors can handle specific computational bottlenecks inside larger classical pipelines, making this a practical deployment model.
Just like everything in tech, a new generation of hardware is available with advances in error correction, qubit architecture and fault tolerance, which is now progressing at a faster pace than ever before.
Applications of quantum computing
While quantum computing could bring advances across industries, there are several particularly promising use-cases.
Cryptography and security
Traditional cryptography methods are based on mathematics, whereas quantum cryptography is built on the principles of quantum physics, opening up new, more secure, possibilities for security. An example is quantum key distribution (QKD), which transmits a unique key to ensure secure communication. As it is impossible to copy data encoded in a quantum state, quantum cryptography, including QKD, promises to offer near-unhackable security once practical deployment is possible.
On the flip side, quantum computing can also threaten current encryption. As a result of this, there are now Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards and migration deadlines in major regions. This includes the EU Roadmap for the Transition to PQC, United States Federal Mandate & The UK NCSC Roadmap.
Healthcare and medical research
Quantum computing is particularly effective at simulation, due to its ability to process vast numbers of calculations at once. The ability to speed up drug discovery and research by simulating molecules and chemical reactions could have a profound impact on the healthcare industry’s ability to cure illnesses and diseases. A recent article in the journal ‘Current Opinion in Structural Biology’ demonstrated this, concluding that ‘We will witness an exciting evolution of quantum chemistry in drug discovery’.
Logistics and optimisation
With the increased calculation speed and capacity of quantum computing, it is ideal for solving complex optimisation problems. For logistics and supply chain management, this could mean quantum computing being used to find optimal delivery routes for example. Research on using quantum technology for optimisation is already underway – Volkswagen for example successfully conducted research into traffic-flow optimisation using an algorithm on a quantum computer, stating ‘The results give us confidence for further applications on the quantum computer’.
The present and future states of quantum computing
Quantum technology has made real, measurable progress. However, commercially viable systems that outperform classical computers are still in development. 2026 has seen quantum computing cross several thresholds that change what’s technically achievable and commercially viable.
There are still a lot of challenges to overcome before we start to see widespread adoption. Qubit stability and coherence, error rates and hardware costs are all areas that need improvement. That being said, error correction has now shifted from a future goal to a work in progress, with logical error rates dropping significantly.
According to the McKinsey Quantum Technology Monitor 2026, Investment in quantum tech start-ups reached $12.6 billion in 2025, which is a staggering 6 times higher than 2024.
McKinsey predict the quantum computing market could be worth $28-$72 billion by 2035 and up to $198 billion by 2040.
