For years, we have heard about quantum computing, these supercomputers that promise to solve critical challenges in various planet fields and industries. Why are all eyes on quantum computers now? Because many tech companies and some countries have started investing in the race to deliver the next quantum breakthrough. Don’t miss out on the next tech trend; keep reading and enter the world of quantum computing
Starting with the ABCs: What is quantum computing?
Quantum computing is a rapidly emerging technology that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to address challenges too complex for conventional computers to handle. Furthermore, quantum computing includes hardware research and application development. For instance, scientists predict they will be fundamental in powering machine learning systems and AI platforms to improve, understand, and interpret large datasets and calculations, ensuring faster AI recommendations and outputs.
What’s the main difference between classical and quantum computers?
While classical computing has driven remarkable technological advancements over the past 50 years, including microprocessors, the internet, and mobile computing, many consider quantum computing the upcoming computing revolution and the most significant paradigm shift since digital computing.
Today’s mainstream computers use bits—a stream of electrical or optical pulses representing 1s or 0s. Quantum computers, on the other hand, use qubits, which are typically subatomic particles such as electrons or photons. Quantum computers capitalize on the properties of quantum mechanics – superposition, entanglement, and decoherence – to perform calculations more accurately and significantly faster than classical computers.
Which issues can quantum computers address or potentially resolve?
Quantum computers will be able to tackle specific types of problems — especially those involving a daunting number of variables and potential outcomes, like simulations or optimization questions — much faster than any classical computer. For instance, shorter research times for innovative drugs, cures for diseases, dynamic management of the large fleets owned by logistics companies, products that arrive earlier and in better condition, and a reduction of tons of carbon emissions.
Moreover, quantum computers will drive innovations across various industries, including finance, logistics, material science, energy, and cryptology, but they can potentially transform these and many other fields.
Some industries with potential applications
- Chemistry and Pharma
- High-Tech
- Industrial Goods
- Banking, Financial Services, Insurance
“Quantum computing application is undoubtedly set to permeate all industries, but its adoption will initially find a foothold in those sectors reliant on highly intricate algorithms and computationally demanding processes. This includes fields such as cryptography, DNA research, the discovery of new drugs and medications, companies dedicated to developing more efficient and sustainable materials, and countless others.
For instance, quantum cryptographic algorithms are now an imminent necessity, given that secrets safeguarded by contemporary algorithms are poised to become vulnerable in the near future. Consequently, many enterprises are actively bolstering security measures to safeguard information over time and preempt potential future challenges”, stated Juan Pablo Pizzaro, SME and Tech Director at Globant.
Why should you care about quantum?
Specialists say we are now in the initial stages of the next revolution and that everyone should be following this quantum computers race, especially companies interested in security, because of its capacity to crack any code based on digital technology. According to Forrester’s Priorities Survey, 2022, 46% of business and technology decision-makers and influencers worldwide have some knowledge about emerging QC solutions, and 65% of them consider QC to be necessary to their organizations. Therefore, technology leaders should adopt an experimental mindset when assessing the business prospects of quantum computing, particularly in fields like risk modeling for financial services, logistics scheduling optimization, healthcare drug development, chemical material discovery, and portfolio risk analysis within the energy sector.
As quantum computing begins to shape business processes, how will you prepare for the future?
At Globant, we understand the significance of quantum computing’s impact on the world, particularly on our clients. That’s why we’re directing our efforts toward raising awareness in every industry and cultivating expertise in the quantum digital realm. Additionally, we’re building a network of partners and collaborators to harness the potential of quantum computing as soon as it becomes available.
