Google executive: Quantum computing may be just five years away from practical application

A Google executive involved in quantum computing research stated that the practical application of quantum computing may be just five years away.

On Tuesday Eastern Time, CNBC reported that Julian Kelly, head of Google's Quantum AI hardware division, indicated that quantum computers could achieve unprecedented technological breakthroughs, including conducting cutting-edge physics research and generating new types of data. He stated:

“We believe that in about five years, quantum computers will experience a real breakthrough, capable of solving practical problems that only quantum computers can address.”

On Tuesday, most quantum computing concept stocks fell. Quantum dropped over 7.5% during the session, while Microvision fell over 4.4% at one point. IONQ, QBTS, QTUM, ARQQ, QUBT, and Honeywell saw their declines narrow, having previously dropped over 4.1%, 7.3%, 0.5%, 7.7%, 5.9%, and 0.7%, respectively. IBM rose nearly 1% before its gains narrowed.

Is Quantum Computing Approaching a Practical Turning Point?

This view is also supported by experts in the field of quantum computing. The main difference between quantum computers and traditional computers is that they are based on "quantum bits" (qubits), which can process multiple states simultaneously, unlike traditional computers that can only handle binary signals of 0 and 1. This characteristic allows quantum computers to far exceed the capabilities of traditional computers when dealing with certain complex problems.

Kelly indicated that the initial applications of quantum computing may focus on simulating cutting-edge physics. Research in these areas often exceeds the processing capabilities of traditional computers, and quantum computers are expected to break through this limitation, providing entirely new solutions. Additionally, Kelly mentioned that quantum computers could potentially generate data for training artificial intelligence, although this application is still considered "speculative."

The Quantum Race Among Tech Giants is Accelerating

Quantum technology has received increasing attention following a significant breakthrough at Google. In December of last year, Google announced progress in error correction for quantum computing, with researchers believing this breakthrough paves the way for usable quantum computers. Google's state-of-the-art quantum computer currently has 105 qubits, although experts point out that to achieve widely useful applications, quantum computers may need to have a million or more qubits.

Meanwhile, Microsoft has also made strides in quantum computing. In February of this year, Microsoft launched a new quantum computing chip called "Majorana," which operates based on a "new state of matter," bringing quantum computing closer to practical application. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella stated that creating this new state of matter is intended to enable quantum computers to process information more effectively.

Additionally, although NVIDIA does not produce quantum processors, the company held a "Quantum Day" event last week, inviting representatives from 12 leading quantum companies, as well as Amazon and Microsoft, to discuss the future potential of quantum technology Despite the broad prospects of quantum computing technology, it still faces numerous challenges. Jensen Huang, CEO of NVIDIA, stated in January of this year that it may take 15 years or even longer for quantum computers to truly enter the market and achieve useful applications.

This statement triggered a significant drop in the stock prices of publicly listed quantum companies. However, Huang clarified these remarks last week, stating that his judgment on the timeline for quantum plans in January was incorrect, but he still emphasized that the technology has a long way to go. He pointed out:

"Quantum computing certainly has potential, and everyone hopes it can have an extraordinary impact, but the complexity of this technology is beyond imagination."