Azure Quantum Public Preview: Microsoft's Quantum Platform

Microsoft has revealed that Azure Quantum, its cloud platform providing access to quantum computing hardware and software from collaborators including Honeywell Quantum Solutions, IonQ, 1QBit, and others, is now available in public preview. Azure Quantum initially launched in limited preview last May. Previously, access was restricted to a select group of Microsoft partners and clients, but beginning today, individuals interested in quantum computing can begin utilizing the service.

The platform includes a limited complimentary allocation for initial exploration. However, continued usage may incur significant costs. Detailed pricing information is available here, with basic system trials costing approximately $10 per compute hour.

Image Credits: Microsoft

As quantum computing is still in its nascent stages, selecting a particular platform – whether Microsoft’s or those of rivals such as IBM and Rigetti – necessitates adopting a corresponding suite of tools. In Microsoft’s case, this encompasses the open-source Quantum Development Kit and its Q# programming language, alongside the recently unveiled hardware-independent Quantum Intermediate Representation (QIR) intermediate language, which is built upon LLVM.

“The move to Public Preview for Azure Quantum represents a significant advancement for quantum computing and our broader ecosystem,” states Krysta Svore, General Manager of Microsoft Quantum. “This builds upon the progress made last year, including designation within the National Quantum Initiative Quantum Research Centers, the onboarding of additional Azure Quantum partners, and improvements in hardware for scaling qubit control circuitry.”

While Microsoft’s internal development of a quantum computer has not yet yielded a functional qubit, the company has achieved progress in other areas. Currently, Microsoft is focusing on collaborations with other companies in the field to support this platform. This strategy also enables Microsoft to assert that it provides the “world’s first comprehensive, public cloud environment for quantum solutions.”

Image Credits: Microsoft