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Once a concept that could only be imagined by the most tech-savvy and mathematically-oriented IT experts, the highly specialized sector of quantum computing is finally starting to come to a full-scale realization. Although its uses are rather limited - as are the number of individuals who are even capable of working with such advanced hardware - the potential is certainly there.

Introducing D-Wave International

D-Wave International, recognized by many to be at the forefront of the mainstream quantum computing field, has recently made headlines by bringing their software solutions into the open source niche. By doing so, the team with D-Wave International hopes to pave the way for the future application and integration of quantum computing technology.

President of D-Wave International, Bo Ewald, describes the thought process that led to their transition to open source. He stated: "Just as a software ecosystem helped to create the immense computing industry that exists today, building a quantum computing industry will require software accessible to the developer community. By making our tools open source, we expand the community of people working to solve meaningful problems using quantum computers."

Keep in mind the fact that this isn't some small-time startup or novice company. In fact, D-Wave International, based out of Canada, has developed quantum computing hardware for the likes of NASA and Google, both of whom have been working with D-Wave since 2013.

What is Quantum Computing?

In the broadest and simplest terms, quantum computing involves the use of high-powered, next-gen computers to aide in big data collection, storage and processing within the fields of quantum mechanics and other similar studies. The results can be used to further developments in aerospace, defense, healthcare and more.

From a purely technical standpoint, quantum computing capable of performing complex algorithms and enhancing processing capabilities that could be, in theory, millions of times more powerful than the PCs, laptops and smartphones we all use today. With that in mind, it's easy to see how quantum computing could potentially be the next great technological revolution.

Open Source Technology and Quantum Computing

In this particular case, D-Wave has brought a software suite known as Qbsolv into the open source world. This, in tandem with the preexisting, freely available tool known as Qmasm, is the company's biggest effort to date when it comes to introducing quantum computing into the mainstream. To take full advantage of the technology, however, users will have to own a quantum computer. D-Wave has eased this burden by offering a D-Wave simulator.

The open source platform has tons of advantages for the quantum computing sector. Apart from making the field far more accessible to a much wider audience, it motivates current and future IT developers to perform their own research into the subject.

Furthermore, quantum computing can benefit from the enhanced storage interoperability and compatibility that open source affords. By establishing standardized file formats and extensions, and with the increasing capacity of consumer-level hard drives and storage devices of today, the next big breakthrough is just around the corner.

To find out more information about D-Wave International, including their advancements in the field of quantum computing, please visit their official website at www.dwavesys.com.