Quantum has always been an exciting field just out of reach due to physics. It appears that IBM, Google, etc etc have started to crack the physics issues, but it will still depend on knowledgeable researchers (most likely less than 100 worldwide who have the experience necessary), and VERY deep pockets. Has IBM kept those researchers around, or did they “age” them out To save their way to prosperity, and Google hired them. Either way, the other big issue is budget and IBM’s pocketbook is drying up research wise, where as Googles is expanding. IF IBM has some advantage due to longer term investment, it would not surprise me to see IBM IP license that out to all comers