The UK has recently announced it has begun sharing quantum research with other members of the G7, with teams racing to make developments in this relatively new area of tech. Many argue that quantum computing is going to be the biggest thing in tech developments, surpassing AI, so let’s have a look at what this technology is and what it could mean for the future of science.
Quantum computing uses the principles of quantum mechanics to solve problems that are too complex for classical computers. This is achieved by using ‘qubits’ (quantum bits) as opposed to regular bits that exist in a binary (using 0 and 1 to convey off and on respectively). While the system does rely on bits in their regular form, the computer is also able to consider values that are in superposition (i.e. they exist in multiple states at once, using a 0 or 1 or both), enabling the computer to solve more complicated calculations.
This method of computing is quick and is looking able to promise huge advances in science and technology: these powerful computers could perform calculations that would take a classical computer decades or centuries to solve but, instead, in the space of a day.
With quantum computing looking set to become a real and practical addition to our lives and not just a piece of science-fiction, how are the professionals seeing these advancements?
Some are seeing these developments as dangerous while others are seeing it as a huge benefit, with many falling somewhere in between, stating that, while the existence of quantum computing holds so many possible positive effects, the technology should be used with caution and responsibility. While we may see leaps and bounds in the advancements of our current technology – notably in the areas of medicine and science – we may also witness heightened risks to cybersecurity, a threat that has caused great concern after many recent cyber-attacks across the UK, affecting millions of customers.
With these huge advancements in computing, it is natural that there are some worries about cyber infrastructure and security – it is a big part of the reason for the UK’s recent partnerships with other nations. The UK has been researching quantum for many years and will now, hopefully, be able to capitalise on its work due to these new collaborations. This technology being shared with allied countries would help to form more layers of protection in the case of cybersecurity.
So, quantum computing. It is looking to be the next big thing and not just a hypothetical area of science. The collaborative work being developed safely and reliably over the next few years could lead us to a point where we see some real value coming out of this technology and it won’t just be sitting in labs and discussed theoretically.
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