When the buzz around AI cools off, quantum computing is set to take center stage. Companies like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft are racing to lead this next tech wave.
Each of these giants has published research detailing how they’re improving qubits, the basic units of quantum computing, to make them reliable. They’re all working on error-correction techniques that can handle the massive scale needed—think hundreds of thousands to millions of qubits—to make practical quantum computers a reality. Heather West, a research manager at IDC, puts it simply: “Error correction is the key. Until we crack this, these quantum systems can only handle small experiments.”
Last week, Amazon unveiled its quantum chip called Ocelot, following Google’s Willow from December and Microsoft’s Majorana 1 the week before. While all these chips are prototypes, they represent important progress. However, none of their error-correction methods fully solve the issue yet. Still, these steps are crucial for developing robust quantum computing systems that could impact drug discovery, improve our understanding of climate change, and revolutionize material science.
West emphasizes the long road ahead. “This is a marathon, not a sprint,” she says. Microsoft seems to be a step ahead, having developed a unique state of matter for its qubits, which analysts say helps ensure data reliability. Amazon claims its Ocelot chip has cut errors by up to 90%, while Google also reports promising reliability with its approach.
All three companies are eager to advance their quantum chips. After the AI craze pushed them to spend heavily on Nvidia’s GPUs for training large-scale models—Nvidia raked in over $130 billion last year, much of it from these cloud giants—they want to avoid a repeat when it comes to quantum technology. David Nicholson from The Futurum Group notes their determination: “They’re not waiting to get left behind; they want to take the lead.”
Looking ahead, West believes that in five years, first-generation quantum systems from cloud providers will significantly lower costs and enhance performance for businesses. In about a decade, advanced quantum technologies could open up new service possibilities. This timeline gives enterprises a chance to start planning for the quantum future now. Organizations should think about how to build the necessary skills, whether through training, hiring specialists, or consulting with third parties.
West notes that companies exploring quantum aren’t just looking to cloud providers. They’re also consulting quantum hardware vendors like IBM and various startups, including QuEra Computing and Rigetti Computing. The landscape is evolving quickly, and it’s crucial for businesses to stay ahead of the curve.
Antone Gonsalves, an editor at large for Informa TechTarget and seasoned tech journalist in San Francisco, keeps a close watch on these industry trends. If you have any tips or insights to share, he’s always open to hearing from you.