Quantum Computing

What does Quantum Computing really mean, and why does it seem not to be working yet?

The Birth of Quantum Computing

In May 1981, Richard P. Feynman introduced a seminal idea toward the development of a quantum computer. He suggested the development of a quantum platform general enough to serve as a "quantum playground", to investigate the behavior of different quantum systems too complex for classical calculations to solve. This idea encompasses one of the two main families of tasks recognized nowadays as strengths of quantum computing: quantum simulations. To simulate the behavior of quantum systems it appears natural to deploy quantum units, since classical units cannot faithfully capture their uniquely quantum features. This task is fundamental today. For example, drug development research requires this type of analysis to simulate the behavior of complex proteins and molecules, learn new ways to control them, and design new compounds.

Qubits and Quantum Computing

Later, a new paradigm emerged alongside these quantum platforms - more familiar to computer scientists: what happens if we imagine a platform, similar to a modern central processing unit (CPU), which consists of many unit objects or bits commonly known as "0s" or "1s" behaving as quantum objects or qubits! Research shows that such a device can significantly speed up certain computational tasks such as finding an object of interest amongst a large group of objects or performing divisions among BIG numbers. The latter is the foundation for the recent hype about quantum computers being able to break Rivest–Shamir–Adleman (RSA) encryption systems, which experts consider impractical in the short term. For those interested in learning more about the previous use cases, you can read about the Grover and Shor algorithms, respectively.

Making a Quantum Computer in Practice

A device that performs these operations could revolutionize how we research and use computers around the world; however, why are we not using these systems today? Building a quantum platform that simulates general systems or implementing qubits in quantum processing units (QPUs) is a delicate task as quantum systems are very delicate objects. Engineering a QPU to harness the properties of quantum physics presents significant challenges. No consensus exists regarding the most suitable technology for the development of such quantum platforms. Major technology corporations, including IBM, Amazon, and Google, construct systems using superconducting qubits. Emerging quantum companies such as QuEra and IonQ are employing neutral-atom and trapped-ion platforms, respectively. The landscape for quantum computing companies changes rapidly, additional information on the latest developments appears on the Quantum Insider platform.

Quantum Computing and Science Diplomacy – Who is Ahead?

The development of quantum technologies has become a geopolitical priority: Breakthroughs in quantum technologies could lead to significant economic and military advantages, fueling a race among individual governments and institutions to achieve these results first. In parallel, the complexity of this research requires global scientific collaboration to achieve major breakthroughs. Science diplomacy proves important for balancing global efforts with individual competitiveness and fostering a fair and open development of this novel technology. The United States, China, and the European Union each address this quantum challenge in different ways. The U.S. has taken an approach focused on funding the private sector. Currently, the United States hosts a majority of quantum companies specializing in superconducting and ion trap qubit devices. In contrast, China has invested approximately $15 billion USD nationally towards quantum technologies with minimal private contributions. Although China has a smaller global influence on quantum chip production, it provides over 90% of the global rare earth materials needed for producing quantum technologies [1]. The European strategy relies on a collaborative approach across member nations with a strong emphasis on industry-academia partnerships. Europe establishes its presence by controlling a large portion of the facilities that develop quantum-enabling hardware, connecting the supply of materials to the assembly of quantum chips. Find an in-depth analysis of the global investment landscape of Quantum Technologies here.

Researchers and industry must make efforts to overcome the challenges that stand between us and the realization of a reliable, fault-tolerant quantum computer. The outcomes will impact quantum technology and research landscapes worldwide. From developing a solid quantum platform, learning how to optimally leverage its potential, and building a robust economic-diplomatic framework for incorporating this new asset into our society, there is much to be done by scientists, investors, and diplomats globally.

[1] https://www.iea.org/reports/global-critical-minerals-outlook-2025/executive-summary