Quantum Computing: The Future is Here
Summer surprises often hide in the most unexpected places. This season, I found myself immersed in the world of quantum computing, surrounded by luminaries in the field such as Peter Shor, Charlie Bennett, and Scott Aaronson. Quantum events seemed to be following me wherever I went.
My journey began with an invitation to Amsterdam for a farewell event honoring Harry Buhrman, a co-founder of the CWI quantum center, QuSoft. As he embarked on a new role at Quantinuum in London, I had the privilege of sharing insights into his classical complexity work before his transition. The event brought together brilliant minds like Ronald de Wolf and Gilles Brassard, enriching the discourse on the future of quantum computing.
En route to Amsterdam, a pitstop in Oxford led me to engaging conversations with Scott Aaronson and Dana Moshkovitz, whose presence added depth to the discourse on AI and quantum. This intellectual rendezvous continued at the Complexity conference in Michigan, where quantum skeptics like me found common ground with proponents of quantum supremacy.
From Peter Shor to Charlie Bennett, each quantum luminary shared insights on the evolving landscape of quantum computing. Despite varying perspectives on the timeline for viable quantum applications, the consensus remained on the nascent stage of quantum’s practical utility. As AI continues to make strides, quantum computing grapples with the challenge of surpassing classical algorithms.
Back in my hometown of Chicago, the unveiling of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park marked a significant milestone in the quantum ecosystem. With PsiQuantum’s ambitious claim of “Building the world’s first useful quantum computer,” the quantum race intensifies with diverse approaches like photonic qubits, trapped ions, superconducting qubits, topological qubits, and silicon qubits vying for supremacy.
As the quantum saga unfolds, the convergence of talent, investment, and technological innovation heralds a new era in quantum computing. While the winner of this quantum race remains uncertain, the journey promises to illuminate the boundless possibilities of quantum mechanics.