How to put a superconducting quantum computer in the cloud

How to put a superconducting quantum computer in the cloud

🎙 IBM Research 👥 120K 📅 November 13, 2025 ⏱ 57 min 👁 742 📄 expert opinion 🧭 2026-08-16
Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

quantum computingsuperconducting qubitscloudIBMhistory

Summary

In this podcast episode, Ryan Mandelbaum interviews Matthias Steffen, an IBM Fellow and leader of quantum processor technology at IBM. They discuss the history of quantum computing, from early theoretical proposals by Richard Feynman to the development of quantum algorithms like Shor’s and Grover’s. Steffen shares his personal journey, starting with liquid-state NMR experiments in the late 1990s, and explains the challenges of building scalable quantum systems. The conversation covers the emergence of superconducting qubits, the role of Josephson junctions, and the invention of circuit QED for readout. They highlight IBM’s decision to put a superconducting quantum processor on the cloud in 2016, making quantum computing accessible to a wider audience. The episode concludes with a look at future directions for superconducting hardware, including error correction and scaling. The discussion is technical but accessible, providing insights into the evolution of quantum computing from a lab curiosity to a cloud-based service.

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Critical Evaluation

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The value of the information lies in the firsthand account of a key figure in the development of superconducting quantum computers. Steffen provides historical context and technical details that are not commonly found in general media. The argumentation is coherent and well-structured, tracing the evolution from early NMR experiments to modern cloud-based systems. He explains complex concepts like Josephson junctions and circuit QED in an understandable manner, making the content valuable for both enthusiasts and professionals. The discussion is balanced, acknowledging alternative approaches like trapped ions and the challenges of scaling. However, the perspective is inherently from IBM’s viewpoint, which may introduce bias in favor of superconducting technology.

Scientific Rigor, Source Quality, Title Accuracy

The scientific rigor is high, as Steffen is an expert in the field and provides accurate historical and technical information. The sources cited are primarily the podcast itself and the IBM Think podcast page, which is a reliable institutional source. The title accurately reflects the content, focusing on the journey of putting superconducting quantum computers in the cloud. The discussion is well-informed, but it is an opinion-based podcast rather than a peer-reviewed presentation. The lack of external citations within the episode limits the ability to verify all claims independently, but the information aligns with known developments in quantum computing.

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Title / Content Match

The title accurately reflects the content, which focuses on the history and development of superconducting quantum computers and their deployment in the cloud.

Quality & Reliability

8/10

The content is presented by an IBM Fellow with deep expertise in superconducting quantum processors. The discussion is grounded in historical facts and technical details, but it is an expert opinion/podcast rather than a peer-reviewed study. The information is reliable within the scope of the speaker's expertise, but it may reflect IBM's perspective.

Chapters

Cited Sources

Concurring Sources

  • IBM Quantum — IBM's official quantum computing platform, which offers cloud access to quantum processors.

Contribution & Novelties

This podcast provides a unique insider perspective on the history and development of superconducting quantum computers, particularly IBM’s journey to cloud-based quantum computing. It offers personal anecdotes and technical details that are not widely known, such as the early NMR experiments and the challenges of scaling. The discussion of alternative qubit implementations and the rationale behind choosing superconductors adds depth to the understanding of quantum hardware evolution.

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Radar Profile

The radar profile shows high scores in information quantity, quality, and reliability, with a slightly lower technical level. This indicates a well-balanced presentation that is both informative and accessible, suitable for a broad audience interested in quantum computing.

Reliability 8/10