Businesses turn to quantum AI despite high costs & confusion

A global survey commissioned by SAS has revealed that three out of five businesses are investigating or investing in quantum artificial intelligence (AI) for business applications.

The survey, which gathered insights from 500 business leaders representing multiple industries across China, France, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and the United States, highlighted a strong interest in quantum computing and quantum AI, identifying them as significant technological trends following the current wave of AI adoption. More than 60% of respondents reported that their organisations are either exploring or actively allocating resources to quantum AI initiatives.

Despite this interest, business leaders noted several substantial obstacles hindering broader adoption of quantum AI. High cost was cited as the top concern by 38% of respondents. Other barriers included a lack of understanding or knowledge (35%), uncertainty around real-world applications (31%), a lack of trained personnel (31%), and the absence of clear regulatory guidelines (26%).

The results underline a gap between enthusiasm for quantum AI and the ability of businesses to implement the technology effectively. Respondents indicated that organisations require clearer guidance and practical roadmaps to navigate the complexities involved in adopting quantum technologies.

SAS, based on its experience in data and AI, is seeking to support businesses in addressing these challenges. The company aims to simplify quantum research for organisations with complex data problems by engaging in pilot projects, conducting quantum AI research, and collaborating with leaders in the quantum computing sector.

Bill Wisotsky, Principal Quantum Architect at SAS, said: "For decades SAS has helped organisations across a host of industries find better answers faster and improve business decisions through data and AI. With the emergence of quantum technologies, companies can analyse more data than ever and achieve amazingly fast answers to very complex questions involving myriad variables. Our goal is to make quantum research simple and intuitive for our customers and help them apply it to their business."

SAS's collaborations include a proof-of-concept partnership with a major consumer goods company, focusing on hybrid quantum-classical optimisation. The project uses quantum annealing alongside SAS's classical optimisation solvers to address complex business challenges. These joint initiatives are part of a broader programme applying AI and data analytics to high-complexity, high-compute tasks in sectors such as life sciences, financial services, and manufacturing.

In the area of quantum AI, SAS researchers are working on developing new algorithms and models leveraging both quantum computing and traditional methods. This approach is intended to solve data-intensive or computationally challenging problems that have been difficult to address using classical computing alone.

SAS is also working with industry partners including D-Wave Quantum, IBM, and QuEra Computing. D-Wave provides quantum annealing systems, which SAS is integrating into both its research efforts and customer programmes. SAS is a member of the IBM Quantum Network and the QuEra Quantum Alliance Partner Program, reflecting its focus on accelerating quantum integration and deployment in business-relevant contexts.

SAS is experimenting with incorporating quantum AI components into its technologies, such as SAS Viya Workbench, an environment for data preparation, exploratory analysis, and AI model development. The company has conducted experiments using quantum annealing technology with SAS Viya Workbench and plans to expand quantum AI experimentation capabilities to more developers in the future.

The global survey found that over 70% of respondents were very or somewhat familiar with quantum AI. Respondents saw strong potential for impact in business functions related to data analytics and machine learning (48%), research and development (41%), cybersecurity (35%), supply chain and logistics (31%), finance and risk management (26%), and marketing (20%).

Wisotsky emphasised the need for accessible solutions: "Our goal is to make quantum research simple and intuitive for our customers and help them apply it to their business."