  We are in the midst of quantum hype with some excessive claims of quantum
computing potential, many vendors' and even some research organizations'
exaggerations, and a funding frenzy for very low technology readiness level
startups. Governments are contributing to this hype with their large quantum
initiatives and their technology sovereignty aspirations. Technology hypes are
not bad per se since they create emulation, drive innovations and also
contribute to attracting new talents. It works as scientists and vendors
deliver progress and innovation on a continuous basis after a so-called peak of
expectations. It fails with exaggerated overpromises and underdeliveries that
last too long. It could cut short research and innovation funding, creating
some sort of quantum winter. After looking at the shape and form of technology
and science hypes and driving some lessons from past hypes, we investigate the
current quantum hype and its specifics. We find that, although there is some
significant uncertainty on the potential to create real scalable quantum
computers, the scientific and vendor fields are relatively sane and solid
compared to other technology hypes. The vendors hype has some profound and
disruptive impact on the organization of fundamental research. Also, quantum
technologies comprise other fields like quantum telecommunications and quantum
sensing with a higher technology readiness level, which are less prone to hype.
We then make some proposals to mitigate the potential negative effects of the
current quantum hype including recommendations on scientific communication to
strengthen the trust in quantum science, vendor behavior improvements,
benchmarking methodologies, public education and putting in place a responsible
research and innovation approach.
