Quantum computing: 5 things you need to know

With advances in medication discovery, climate solutions, and encryption systems, quantum computing has the potential to completely transform science, industry, and society. Quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in several states at once, in contrast to classical computers, which process data in bits. This opens up previously unheard-of processing capability, but it also brings with it new difficulties, especially in handling failures.

As Steve Brierley, founder of Riverlane, says, “Quantum computing is not going to be just slightly better than the previous computer, it’s going to be a huge step forward.”

Here are five key things you need to know about this exciting technology:

1. A Leap, Not a Step Forward

Quantum computing is a revolutionary development rather than just a small advancement. Qubits’ capacity to exist in several states at once opens up a world of possibilities for jobs that traditional computers are unable to perform, particularly as systems grow in size.

2. Correcting Errors: The Key to Progress

Quantum computers are infamously error-prone and susceptible to noise. For these systems to be practical, error correction is necessary. To overcome this difficulty, Riverlane has developed the first quantum decoder chip. “The challenge now is to scale up… and to add error correction into the systems,” Brierley explains.

3. Transforming Industry and Science

Due to their their exceptional ability to simulate atomic and molecular interactions, quantum computers hold great promise for improving medicine discovery, producing greener fertiliser (reducing CO2 emissions), and creating more effective batteries—all vital instruments in the battle against climate change.

4. Exponential Scaling Up

As additional qubits are added, quantum computers’ power increases exponentially. But this also makes error management more difficult, which is why exact qubit control is crucial. “We’ll be able to solve problems which would otherwise be unsolvable,” Brierley says, implying that scaled-up quantum systems may be used in the future.

5. A High-Stakes International Race

Modern encryption could be cracked by quantum computing, which presents both opportunities and threats. There is a pressing need to govern this technology as countries compete to develop it. Brierley, however, cautions, “No government wants to come second,” highlighting the significance of being a quantum leader from a geopolitical standpoint.

Although quantum computing is still in its infancy, there is no denying its potential. The race to realise its full potential—and change the world as we know it—is on, with significant investments and innovations in the works.