Q&A: How will quantum computers change society? A Kobe University researcher explains

[Theo90]

Phys.org has a Q&A with Professor Takuji Miki from Kobe University's Graduate School of Science, Technology and Innovation, and it is a nice down to earth explanation of where quantum computing is heading. Miki works on silicon spin qubits, which use existing semiconductor technology. The big attraction is that many qubits could be packed densely onto a single chip. That could make it easier to reach the scale needed for practical machines. Kobe has been a quiet contributor to Japan's quantum programme for years

On timing, Miki suggests practical quantum computers may arrive between 2035 and 2040, although some companies are targeting 2030. He lists drug discovery, new materials, artificial photosynthesis to help with climate change, AI and financial simulations as major applications. Chemistry calculations in particular could get much faster. That matches the BCG report we discussed this week

He is also clear that quantum computers will not replace normal ones. Conventional computers will remain essential for the many calculations where quantum offers no advantage. Quantum machines will be specialists that sit alongside classical systems. That is a sensible point that gets lost in a lot of hype

The challenges he lists are familiar. Machines need cooling close to absolute zero, and the control circuits have to run at low power inside those cold environments. Around a million qubits will be needed for proper error correction. Security is the other big issue, and he says quantum computers have the potential to destroy conventional security systems, since encryption is even used in military technology

Silicon spin qubits do not get as much attention as superconducting or neutral atom machines, but the chip industry connection is a big advantage. Do you think 2035 to 2040 is a realistic timeline? And will silicon end up winning the qubit race because of the existing chip factories?

Qa Quantum Societyphys.org