Quantum computing is emerging as the next technological revolution that will radically transform the way we process information. Although it is still in an early stage of development and the scientific challenges ahead are considerable, interest in this technology is growing rapidly.

Companies such as Google, Microsoft, IBM, Amazon, and Intel, among others, are allocating enormous sums of money to quantum computing initiatives, projects and developments.

According to recent research by the consulting firm Capgemini, 23% of organisations are already working or planning to work with quantum systems in the immediate future, while 20% have already launched successful trials of this technology.

"Quantum technologies promise exponential speed compared to today's best supercomputers and will bring to market capabilities that are currently unavailable, such as eavesdropping-proof communications and ultra-precise and rapid measurements, collectively known as quantum advantage", the report notes.

Much Faster and More Efficient Computing

The concept of quantum computing emerged in the 1980s from the research of scientists Richard Feynman and Yuri Manin. Between the late 1990s and early 2000s, the first experimental quantum computers began to be manufactured.

Unlike traditional computers, which analyse information through bits represented as zeros and ones, quantum computers are based on the use of subatomic particles called qubits, which can be in multiple states simultaneously thanks to a phenomenon known as quantum superposition.

Furthermore, qubits can be entangled, meaning that the state of one qubit can instantly affect the state of another, regardless of the distance between them. This allows calculations to be performed much more efficiently and quickly than with traditional computers.

In recent years, companies such as IBM and Google, and countries like China, have announced that they have achieved "quantum supremacy"—the ability to solve in a short period of time problems that would take a classical supercomputer many years to solve.

Quantum Challenges

One of the biggest challenges facing quantum computing is the stability of qubits, as they are extremely sensitive to external interference, which can cause errors in calculations. Scientists are working on solutions to improve fidelity and error correction in qubits.

Another crucial challenge is scalability. Currently, the most advanced quantum computers operate with a few hundred qubits, but millions will be needed for complex, practical applications.

Increasing the number of qubits whilst maintaining their quality and control is a formidable task that requires significant advances in engineering and quantum physics.

Cooling and energy consumption represent another major obstacle. Current quantum systems require extremely low temperatures -close to absolute zero- to function correctly.

This involves the use of complex and expensive cooling systems, posing both technical and economic challenges for the commercial viability of these machines.

On the other hand, there is a notable shortage of professionals trained in this technology, which is why specific educational programmes are being created in universities and even in secondary schools.

Despite the challenges, optimism surrounding quantum computing is palpable. It is expected that within a few years, commercial quantum computers will be available, potentially triggering a revolution in multiple industries.

An Abundance of Benefits

The potential of this technology is enormous, and its application spans a wide variety of sectors and industries. In the healthcare sector, quantum computing can accelerate the simulation of molecules and materials at the atomic level, enabling the design of more effective drugs and materials with superior properties.

It is also being used in some hospitals, such as in Toronto, Canada, to monitor brain activity of children undergoing treatment.

In the logistics field, its implementation is already showing promising results, such as in the port of Los Angeles in the United States, where quantum systems have improved efficiency in goods management.

In academic and scientific fields, it could significantly accelerate research in areas such as physics and climatology. Likewise, quantum algorithms can solve complex problems and improve efficiency in financial markets.

Cryptography is another area where quantum computing can have a strong impact due to its ability to break current encryption methods, although it can also create more secure quantum encryptions.

Bright Future

Although it is still in its early stages, the advances made in recent years are promising and augur a bright future for this technology.

More efficient quantum algorithms are being developed, qubit performance is being improved, and increasingly larger and more powerful computers are being built.

The expectation is that this technology will not only boost economic growth but also improve the daily lives of millions of people around the world. International collaboration will be key to overcoming challenges and maximising its benefits.

Quantum computing has the potential to solve previously unimaginable problems, drive scientific and technological progress, and open up new possibilities for humanity.