Quantum Technologies

Quantum computing is beginning to move from labs into commercial deployment, and one of the main ways companies will be able to access this technology is through Quantum-as-a-Service (QaaS) offerings.  Instead of companies investing in costly quantum hardware on-site, the QaaS model would allow them to tap into quantum capabilities via remote access services, much like they would with Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) arrangements. But while the delivery model may be akin to the SaaS model, quantum technology is still in its early stages and has unique hardware and infrastructure related challenges, as further described in a recent Covington blog post. Continue Reading Quantum-as-a-Service: Practical Considerations for Drafting and Negotiating Agreements

Artificial Intelligence (“AI”) continues to command attention as today’s prominent technological asset, revolutionizing key markets and sectors. Simultaneously, discussions of another advanced technology known as quantum computing have gained traction. Because both technologies expand the universe of problems that can be tackled by computers, one might wonder, if we have AI, do we also need…

Continue Reading Harnessing the complementary power of AI and Quantum Computing

Quantum computing is largely in the research and developmental stage, but its commercial use is on the horizon. Due to the high cost and technical complexity of maintaining qubits, companies and individuals likely won’t own quantum computers themselves. Instead, access will mainly come through third-party platforms offering “Quantum-Computing-as-a-Service” (QCaaS) or “Quantum-as-a-Service” (QaaS).

Similar to the Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) or Infrastructure-as-a-Services (IaaS) models, QaaS would be a remote access service model with a subscription or “pay for what you use” fee structure. The key differentiating factor with QaaS will be the underlying quantum computing infrastructure and the quantum computing algorithm. Due to the similarities between SaaS, IaaS and QaaS models, terms in a typical SaaS or IaaS agreement would be a good starting point for QaaS contracts. However, due to the experimental and volatile nature of quantum computing technology (at least initially), lawyers and legal practitioners should also consider the risks that are unique to quantum computing when drafting or negotiating a QaaS agreement:Continue Reading Quantum Computing: Overview of Drafting Considerations for Quantum-as-a-Service Agreements

Quantum computing uses quantum mechanics principles to solve certain complex mathematical problems faster than classical computers.  Whilst classical computers use binary “bits” to perform calculations, quantum computers use quantum bits (“qubits”).  The value of a bit can only be zero or one, whereas a qubit can exist as zero, one, or a combination of both states (a phenomenon known as superposition) allowing quantum computers to solve certain problems exponentially faster than classical computers.

The potential applications of quantum computing are wide-ranging and industry-agnostic. For instance, they could be used to enhance the analysis of large, complex data sets, optimize supply-chain processes, and enhance artificial intelligence (“AI”) technologies and improve machine learning algorithms.

Given the potential applications, quantum computing could have a significant impact on companies in the life sciences sector, and more specifically could be used to improve:Continue Reading Quantum Computing and its Impact on the Life Science Industry