Council Post: Quantum Computing: The Next Frontier Or A Hype-Filled Bubble? (2024)

Founder of Intellisystem Technologies. Scientific researcher and professor at eCampus University. NASA Genelab AWG AI/ML member.

Quantum computing is a new approach founded on quantum mechanics principles to perform calculations. Unlike classical computers, which store information in bits (either 0 or 1), quantum computers use quantum bits or "qubits" that can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This physics property allows quantum computers to perform specific calculations much faster than classical computers.

The potential applications of quantum computing are vast and include fields such as cryptography, finance and drug discovery. It promises to transform multiple industries and tackle challenges that classical computers cannot solve.

However, critics claim that the excitement around quantum computing is exaggerated and resembles a bubble more than a genuine technological advancement. They highlight that despite years of research, practical uses of quantum computing are limited and scarce, indicating the need for further improvement.

Researchers still need time to develop a functional and scalable quantum computer, and some claims about its capabilities may need reconsideration.

Critics also argue that investors currently base their investments in quantum computing on speculation and hype rather than a clear comprehension of its potential. Several startups are already claiming to be the "next big thing" in quantum computing, but many of these companies may not be around in a few years if the bubble bursts.

Another challenge is that quantum computing demands a thorough understanding of quantum mechanics, which requires better communication with non-experts, making it challenging for them to evaluate the potential of quantum computing and distinguish between credible and exaggerated claims.

By focusing on these critical points, non-experts can better understand quantum computing and distinguish between credible and overhyped claims:

• Basics of quantum mechanics: Explain the principles of quantum mechanics and how it differs from classical mechanics.

• Quantum computing vs. classical computing: Compare and contrast quantum computing with classical computing, highlighting the strengths and limitations of each.

• Quantum bit (qubit): Discuss the fundamental building block of quantum computing (the qubit) and how it differs from classical bits.

• Quantum algorithms: Highlight a few examples of quantum algorithms and how they solve specific problems that classical computers cannot.

• Real-world applications: Explain a few practical applications of quantum computing and how they can impact various industries such as healthcare, finance and logistics.

• Limitations and challenges: Discuss the current limits and challenges of quantum computing, such as scalability and the need for further research and development.

Understanding the evolution of quantum computing is essential to stay ahead of technological advancements, making informed investment decisions, preparing for societal impacts and advancing scientific knowledge.

More specifically, the reasons are:

• Technological advancement: Quantum computing can revolutionize the way many industries operate and solve problems currently unsolvable with classical computers. Understanding its evolution can help us predict its future impact and prepare for it.

• Investment decisions: Quantum computing is a rapidly growing industry with significant investment opportunities. Understanding its evolution can help investors make informed decisions about investments in the field.

• Impact on society: Quantum computing has the potential to impact society in many ways, such as improving healthcare, finance and logistics. Understanding its evolution can help policymakers and the community prepare for and manage these impacts.

• Scientific advancement: Quantum computing is a cutting-edge science field still in its early stages. Understanding its evolution can help researchers and scientists explore new frontiers and advance our knowledge.

To understand the evolution of quantum computing, one can follow these steps:

• Study the history: Get familiar with the historical milestones and critical developments in quantum computing. From the first theories in the 1980s to recent breakthroughs, studying the evolution of quantum computing will give you a better understanding of the field.

• Learn the basics: Acquire a foundational understanding of quantum mechanics and the principles behind quantum computing. Understanding the basic concepts and theories of quantum computing will help you appreciate the field's evolution.

• Follow the research: Stay up to date with the latest research and development in quantum computing by regularly reading scientific papers, attending conferences and following leading researchers in the field.

• Engage with the community: Participate in online forums, attend workshops and conferences, and connect with researchers, engineers and enthusiasts in quantum computing.

• Evaluate the progress: Assess the progress made in quantum computing over time and compare it to the goals and expectations set by the scientific community.

By following these steps, you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of quantum computing and stay informed about its latest developments.

In conclusion, quantum computing has the considerable potential to be a game-changer in many industries, but it's still too early to say whether it will live up to its hype. There are many challenges to overcome, including developing practical, scalable quantum computers and understanding quantum mechanics. Whether or not the current investment in quantum computing is a bubble remains to be seen, but one thing is for sure: The next few years will be critical in determining the future of this field.

For this, it is essential to understand the evolution of quantum computing by following the development and the related market.

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Council Post: Quantum Computing: The Next Frontier Or A Hype-Filled Bubble? (2024)

FAQs

Is quantum computing over hyped? ›

Hype is everywhere, skeptics say, and practical applications are still far away. The quantum computer revolution may be further off and more limited than many have been led to believe. That's the message coming from a small but vocal set of prominent skeptics in and around the emerging quantum computing industry.

Why did NASA shut down the quantum computer? ›

Quantum Computing - Why did NASA shut down quantum computer? NASA had to shut down the quantum computer due to a sudden onset of unusual behavior that they could not explain. The strange occurrence that led to the shutdown is referred to as 'qubit loss'.

What is the biggest problem with quantum computing? ›

Challenges of quantum computing

The three main challenges we'll look at include quantum decoherence, error correction, and scalability. Each is a major hurdle on the road to quantum computing, and must be overcome if the technology is to reach full potential.

Which country is leading in quantum computing? ›

The United States and China are considered the leaders in the field; many experts believe America still holds an edge. As the race to master quantum computing continues, a scramble is on to protect critical data.

How close are we to quantum computing? ›

How close are we to a future with quantum computing? Quantum researchers are still working on tough problems, including a trick called coherence. To achieve coherence, qubits must vibrate in unison, but maintaining this has been a challenge. "We're making about one error in every hundred or so steps," Chou said.

Is the US leading in quantum computing? ›

America is the undisputed world leader in quantum computing even though China spends 8x more on the technology–but an own goal could soon erode U.S. dominance. China has earmarked at least $15 billion to develop its quantum computing capabilities.

Is Elon Musk working on a quantum computer? ›

However, it turns out that not all of his controversial interviews are real. A since-deleted Facebook video, posted in August 2023, showed Elon Musk telling Tucker Carlson that he would launch a quantum AI program to end poverty — but it was a scam.

What quantum computers Cannot do? ›

For instance, contrary to some reports, quantum computers cannot store infinite data. While qubits can hold more information than binary bits because of their ability to exist in multiple states simultaneously, there is still a finite limit to the number of qubits and the data they can represent.

How long until quantum computers exist? ›

The current field of quantum computers isn't quite ready for prime time: McKinsey has estimated that 5,000 quantum computers will be operational by 2030 but that the hardware and software necessary for handling the most complex problems won't be available until 2035 or later.

Is there anything better than quantum computing? ›

The scientists' results show that classical computing can be reconfigured to perform faster and more accurate calculations than state-of-the-art quantum computers.

Why is quantum computing a risk? ›

Quantum computers can break many of the encryption algorithms currently used to protect sensitive data, posing a grave threat to all data users. Modern encryption relies on the difficulty of calculating solutions to mathematical problems to keep data secure.

Is NASA using quantum computing? ›

NASA's QuAIL team aims to demonstrate that quantum computing and quantum algorithms may someday dramatically improve the agency's ability to address difficult optimization and machine learning problems arising in NASA's aeronautics, Earth and space sciences, and space exploration missions.

Does NASA use quantum computing? ›

The Quantum Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (QuAIL) is where NASA conducts research to determine the capabilities of quantum computers and their potential to support the agency's goals in the decades to come.

Who is the father of quantum computing? ›

David Deutsch FRS

Does quantum computing have a future? ›

A future built on quantum computing is a promising one, in which we can solve some of humanity's greatest problems faster, more efficiently, more accurately and at a greater scale. When we get to that future is the real question as we work to enhance and scale our current quantum capabilities.

Where is quantum computing on the hype cycle? ›

Figure 1 below shows Quantum Technology on Gartner's Hype cycle diagram. It is still in the Innovation Trigger stage and more investment money is flowing into quantum computing technologies.

Will quantum computing ever be useful? ›

Researchers have obtained only mathematical proofs that quantum computers will offer large gains over current, classical computers in simulating quantum physics and chemistry, and in breaking the public-key cryptosystems used to protect sensitive communications such as online financial transactions.

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