Quantum Computing in Image Processing: A Comprehensive Survey of Applications, Challenges, and Future Directions

Abstract

Quantum computing, with its promise of exponential speedups and novel algorithms, has emerged as a revolutionary technology in various computational fields, including image processing. This survey provides a comprehensive review of the applications of quantum computing in image processing, exploring how quantum algorithms and hardware can address classical challenges such as image compression, enhancement, pattern recognition, and image recovery. The paper delves into the theoretical foundations of quantum computing, discusses current advancements, and compares quantum methods with traditional approaches. Moreover, it identifies the key challenges, such as scalability and hardware limitations, that currently hinder the widespread adoption of quantum techniques in image processing. Finally, the survey outlines future research directions, highlighting the potential for further integration of quantum computing with advanced image processing technologies like deep learning. This work aims to serve as a foundational reference for researchers and practitioners interested in the intersection of quantum computing and image processing.