Assessing the Limits of Simple Quantum Hardware

Abstract

Although quantum computing is advancing rapidly, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of the computations available to quantum computer researchers is still a challenge today. This paper reviews the main directions of quantum error correction (QEC) techniques that can potentially be applied in superconducting qubit computers. We present the MerminPeres magic square game, where the quantum strategy has theoretical advantages over classical and can provide a benchmark solution for testing the accuracy of quantum computation. In the experimental part of our work, we run the algorithm of the Mermin-Peres magic square game on IBMQ quantum computers accessible via the cloud. Our experimental results failed to demonstrate a proven quantum advantage of the game on the noisy intermediate-scale quantum (NISQ) hardware tested, confirming the inevitable need to implement error correction techniques on physical qubits. By aligning with the Digital and Cognitive Corporate Reality (DCR) theme, this research seeks to inform business strategies incorporating emerging quantum technologies.