I am deep in the 2nd week of my Deep Tech Learning Journey. Today takes us into Quantum Computing - one of the most complex fields in deep tech. And possibly the field which has the craziest implications for the internet and the way computers work.
What is Quantum Computing?
It's tough for a business guy to wrap his head around. Bear with me:
Classical computing processes information in bits (0s and 1s), quantum computers operate using qubits, using principles of quantum mechanics like superposition and entanglement. This allows quantum computers to process massive amounts of data at once, solving problems that are impossible for classical computers.
In a way, quantum computers operate like a human brain - capable of processing multiple things at once. Just as someone with ADHD might experience an overwhelming stream of thoughts, quantum computers run many processes in parallel. This allows them to make calculations in seconds that would take classical computers take years.
So, why is Quantum Computing a game changer for the way we use the internet?
Today's cybersecurity state-of-the-art will be obsolete
Quantum computers can break today's encryption standards, but they also enable quantum cryptography, creating virtually unhackable communication networks. This will shake industries like finance, defense, and healthcare and affect everyone using the internet. We will need "post-quantum" cybersecurity like ResQuant's or RANDAEMON's solutions.
Faster drug development, yes even faster than with AI (see last week's post)
In biotechnology, quantum computers will help simulate complex molecular structures. Problems that take years of computation today could be solved in hours. Breakthrough drug development may become supercharged.
Optimizing systems in logistics, finance, and energy
Quantum computing offers tremendous potential in industries like logistics, finance, and energy by optimizing incredibly complex systems. From supply chain management to portfolio optimization the possibilities are vast, just take a look at finQbit (Techstars'23).
Where are we now?
Though quantum computing is still in its early stages, companies like IBM, Google, and Rigetti Computing are making significant strides. In fact, Google’s recent claim of achieving quantum supremacy marked a milestone, showing that quantum computers can now outperform classical computers on specific tasks. Most companies in the space claim to be "quantum ready". 😉
What’s next?
The path to fully functional, fault-tolerant quantum computers is still long, but the potential for disruption is enormous. Quantum computing is not just a step forward. It’s a giant leap into the future.
What are your thoughts on the rise of quantum computing? Do you know someone working on an exciting application?
