Quantum computing is following in the exact same footsteps as classical computing.
IBM paved the way for classical computing by developing FORTRAN. This was the first functional implementation of a high-level programming language for classical computers. And now we have the first functional implementation of a high-level programming language for quantum.
But despite all of the progress in quantum computing, this impactful new technology is facing the same criticisms and skepticism that classical computing saw during its development.
And we all know how that turned out.
Curiosity and skepticism are natural, but the truth is out
New technologies naturally invite questions, and every technology has its critics. A certain level of skepticism is healthy in any new business endeavor, investment or scientific pursuit.
But despite some very vocal quantum skeptics, be aware that quantum is both real and critical.
With quantum computing following directly in the footsteps of classical computing, we'll soon look back at the quantum criticisms that we’re hearing today the same way we look at failed predictions such as: "There is no reason anyone would want a computer in their home."
Quantum computing is both the future and a reality - today
The reality is that you can use a quantum computer right this minute or any time.
IBM put the first quantum computer on the cloud in 2016. Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud and Microsoft Azure cloud platforms also now offer remote access to quantum computers.
Yet quantum critics sometimes wonder out loud about the viability of quantum computing. These concerns are unfounded and closely parallel such commentary and the concerns that some voiced during the early days of classical computers and tablets such as the iPad.
In introducing Apple’s now-widespread tablet, which broke sales records, Steve Jobs said: “A question has arisen lately. Is there room for a third category of device in the middle? Something that’s between a laptop and a smartphone... In order to really create a new category of devices, those devices are going to have to be far better at doing some key tasks. They’re going to have to be far better at doing some really important things… But we think we’ve got something that is and we’d like to show it to you today for the first time. And we call it the iPad.”
I’m not suggesting that quantum computers will become consumer products or even that every business will use a quantum computer. What I am saying is that quantum computers are far better than other kinds of computers at doing some really important things. And quantum is an existing and robust technology that you can use today. You can get it, try it, experience it.
Rapid advances continue to move quantum computing forward
It’s also important to note that quantum isn’t measured by a single milestone. The world should be gauging quantum computing by its series of successes on which innovators continue to build.
At first, people thought quantum machines were fun concepts, but pure theory. Then, in 1998 three scientists built a tiny two-qubit computer in their lab that could successfully load data and output a solution. Quantum computing and software development have advanced ever since.
In 2020, IBM released its commercial quantum computing roadmap. Soon after, it broke the 100-qubit barrier. In late 2022, IBM unveiled its 433-qubit Osprey processor, more than tripling the 127 qubits on the IBM Eagle processor it unveiled in 2021. And IBM continues to set and reach new and more ambitious goals. Of course, IBM is just one of many quantum innovators.
Organizations worldwide are investing in the power of quantum
Countries across the world and leading companies across the aerospace, automotive, financial services, health care and life sciences, materials science and pharmaceutical sectors, as well as other businesses and industries, have invested in and launched quantum computing efforts.
Now is the time to get started with quantum so that you can begin to identify the most useful applications of this technology for your business, build quantum knowledge, file patents based on your quantum applications and know-how, and solve previously unsolvable problems.
Adopting a new technology can be a little scary. But don’t let the fear factor and vocal critics prevent you from moving forward - because quantum is happening now, and it’s the future.
Everybody makes mistakes. But don’t make the mistake of being on the wrong side of history when it comes to quantum. Getting started with quantum now is critical for your business.
