“Yo, Quantum Computers Are Already Here and They’re Legit – You Just Haven’t Realized!”
The whole buzz around quantum computers is that they will revolutionize computing as we know it. With their incredible computing power, they will be able to tackle tasks that are currently out of reach even for supercomputers.
But the reality has not quite matched the hype. Claims about quantum advantage – problems that traditional computers can’t solve but quantum computers can – have sparked criticism from both skeptics and enthusiasts. The question remains: what will quantum computing actually bring? How far have we progressed? And how do we navigate through the constant stream of supposed “major breakthroughs” that flood the media every week?
Separating Hype from Reality
To get some answers and separate fact from fiction, Gizmodo paid a visit to IBM’s offices in Manhattan and had a chat with Jerry Chow, director of quantum hardware. According to Jerry, the ultimate goal is to make quantum computing useful in the real world by offering a different kind of computation than what currently exists.
Incremental Progress and Collaboration
Jerry sees quantum advantage as an incremental process, not a sudden game-changer. Just like GPUs evolved from being niche products for gaming to becoming essential tools in various scientific fields, quantum computing is expected to follow a similar path. It’s all about combining quantum resources with classical ones to solve problems more efficiently.
The key to success, according to Jerry, lies in collaboration. IBM is actively engaging with a community of nearly 300 members to explore potential applications in diverse sectors like healthcare, life sciences, oil and gas, and energy. Quantum computers are not some distant futuristic technology – they are already here and usable. You can even run quantum circuits for free on IBM’s machines online.
Looking Ahead
As for the next big milestone, Jerry mentions the upcoming introduction of a new device called Nighthawk. The focus will be on running increasingly complex circuits with quantum computers while incorporating classical feedback. This interaction between quantum and classical computing is expected to drive progress in the field in the coming year.
