Transforming technology from now to beyond. By Raymond Chan
n today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, quantum computing stands at the forefront of innovation, promising to transform industries and redefine the boundaries of computational power. As we are
in the new year of 2025, the implications of this ground breaking technology are becoming increasingly apparent.
The rise of quantum computing
Quantum computing leverages the principles of quantum mechanics, harnessing the unique behaviors of subatomic particles to process information in fundamentally different ways than classical computers.
While classical computers use bits as the smallest unit of information, represented as either 0 or 1, quantum computers utilize qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously, due to the phenomenon known
as superposition. This allows quantum computers to perform a vast number of calculations at once.
Another key principle is entanglement, where qubits become interconnected in such a way that the state of one qubit can depend on the state of another, regardless of the distance between them. This interconnectedness enhances computational efficiency, enabling quantum computers to solve complex problems that would be intractable for classical systems.
The quantum computing advantage
The advantages of quantum computing become evident in specific applications. For instance, in the field of cryptography, quantum computers can factor large numbers exponentially faster than
classical computers, posing both a challenge and an opportunity for data security. Quantum algorithms, like Shor’s algorithm, can break widely used encryption methods, necessitating the development of quantumresistant cryptographic systems.
In optimization problems, quantum computing can explore multiple solutions simultaneously, significantly speeding up processes in fields like logistics, finance and materials science. For example, quantum
simulations can model molecular interactions at an unprecedented level of detail, paving the way for breakthroughs in drug discovery and new material development.
The theory behind quantum computing’s superiority lies in its ability to handle vast data sets and complex calculations more efficiently than classical computers. Problems that would take classical systems years to solve can potentially be resolved by quantum computers in a fraction of the time, revolutionizing industries reliant on data analysis.
Quantum computing application
Quantum computers are particularly well-suited for tasks that require immense computational power. These include:
- Cryptography: Quantum computers can break traditional encryption algorithms and create new, more secure methods for data protection.
- Complex Simulations: They excel in simulating molecular structures, which is crucial for drug discovery and material science.
- Optimization Problems: Quantum algorithms can solve complex optimization issues in logistics, finance and supply chain management much faster than classical counterparts. Machine Learning: Quantum computing can enhance machine-learning algorithms by processing large datasets more efficiently, leading to improved models.
The future of classic computing
Despite the promise of quantum computing, classical computers remain essential for a variety of tasks, particularly those that do not require the exponential processing power of quantum systems. These include:
- Everyday Applications: Routine tasks like word processing, web browsing and simple data management are efficiently handled by classical computers.
- Embedded Systems: Many devices, from microwaves to cars, rely on classical computing for their operation, making them indispensable in daily life.
- Standard Data Processing: Tasks involving straightforward calculations or data entry can be performed effectively without the need for quantum capabilities.
Classical computers excel in environments where stability, reliability and cost-effectiveness are paramount. Their established infrastructure and widespread availability ensure that they will continue to play a crucial role in the technology landscape.
In conclusion, the rise of quantum computing signifies a paradigm shift in technology very soon, with the potential to revolutionize multiple industries in a few years. As quantum and classical computing coexist, their respective strengths will enable a new era of innovation. While quantum computing opens doors to unprecedented capabilities, classical computers will remain vital for everyday applications and tasks. By keeping eyes on both technologies, we can create the future for the complex challenges ahead and unlock new opportunities for growth, ultimately leading to transformative advancements across various sectors.
ABOUT RAYMOND CHAN
Raymond is a software engineer by profession with a track record in corporate innovation and entrepreneurship. He co-founded two prosperous startups, TGG Interactive and Global Gaming Group in Asia, where he served as director and CEO to lead the customer intelligence and electronic gaming businesses from 2007 to 2018. Earlier in his career, Raymond was a founding member of the business intelligence team at E*TRADE from Morgan Stanley and played a pivotal role in designing the TiVo customer intelligence system in Silicon Valley.
