> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.qms.finance/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.qms.finance/overview/releases.md).

# Releases

The QMS blockchain described in the [Overview](/overview.md) is launched in stages, each adding new features to the one before. Releasing incrementally allows each component to be rapidly tested and validated, so that each new version builds on a solid basis. It also leaves the order open to revision as commercial demand, market feedback, and the surrounding technology change.

The releases described below reflect current priorities. Client requirements differ: a trading firm using quadratic unconstrained binary optimization (QUBO) for portfolio optimization needs tools that connect the solver to wallets and exchanges, while a logistics company needs a solver of its own for much larger problems at high accuracy, reached through a conventional, non-blockchain interface. The post-quantum (PQ) timeline depends on how fast quantum hardware advances, how PQ standards settle, and when Ethereum ships the execution-layer changes QMS inherits. The same advances in quantum hardware also determine when quantum miners can join the network.

## What is live

**QMS v0.1, live now on QMS Testnet.** The first release is a preview, a minimal blockchain that showcases the work in progress, with no expectation that its state is preserved in the next version. It runs a proof-of-useful-work (PoUW) consensus protocol solving randomly generated problems, connected to an EVM execution layer, so transactions can be submitted and smart contracts run. Some key features of a consensus layer, e.g., the difficulty adjustment algorithm and block rewards, are deferred to the next release, as is the finality layer. The block explorer shows, for each block, the randomly generated problem that was solved to produce it and the solution that won the block.

To try it, see [Onboarding](/onboarding.md).

## What follows

**QMS v1.** By the second release, QMS has everything needed to be a functional, secure blockchain fit for applications that hold and move real value: a feature-complete PoUW consensus protocol, a PQ finality layer, and an EVM execution layer. The network processes transactions and runs smart contracts like any EVM chain, except that fees are paid in the native token. Some advanced features, e.g., blobs, are deactivated.

**QMS v2.** The third release focuses on the useful-work marketplace and on problems submitted by clients. A back-end service converts a client's data into QUBO form, and the resulting problems are posted to the marketplace for miners to pick up. Solution rewards are also implemented.

*Adapted from Section 10 of the* [*white paper*](https://docs.qms.finance/whitepaper)*.*\
*Further reading: Section 10 of the white paper describes each release in more detail and the directions of development beyond QMS v2.*