Why: Quantum technology is revolutionizing how we share, store, and process information. We will no longer need items like computers to work on stuff and will do it through multi-state, timeless, and distance-free manner. This technology advancement will drastically transform surveillance methods, national security, drone technology as well as how we present stuff at the office – it would be just enough to flip our dashboard upwards to show it in air. Yeah, that scene in Matrix.
What: Quantum technology uses distinct properties of subatomic particles (protons, neutrons, and electrons) to develop extremely powerful computing tools. Leading researchers argue that this technology will make computing devices as vintage as abacus from the beginning of the 2030s. Not blockchain, not AI, not even big data will have an impact as immense as quantum mechanics on technological advancement. First discussed in Gerard J. Milburn’s 1997 book “Schrodinger’s Machines,” quantum technology drastically increased in the last 30 years. Quantum mechanics revolutionized 20th century by bringing lasers, tiny computer chips, and energy-efficient LEDs to market. Quantum technology is set to change how we regard computers by allowing the matter to be in more than one states, at the same time. This technology will enable advanced quantum sensors that reveal underground reserves, new portable navigation devices, and hyperrealistic holograms to enter the market as of 2021.
Who: America is leading the race thanks to unicorns Google, Microsoft, Intel, and IBM’s immense investment in developing the most efficient quantum technology hardware. On the other hand, in 2018, China had nearly twice as many patent filings as the United States in the field of quantum technology, which includes communications and cryptology devices. Notably, the University of Science and Technology of China in Shanghai team of researcher team lead of Pan Jian-Wei is making serial breakthroughs. Beijing is pouring billions into research and development and is offering Chinese scientists — most of whom spent years training overseas — big perks to return home from Western labs, as Daily Pnut states.
Who to watch & follow:
QCommHub: UK’s Quatum Technology Hub for Quantum Communications and Technologies
Rhys Lewis, Director of the National Physical Labratory Quantum Metrology Institute
Akira Furusawa, The University of Tokyo
Natalia Berloff, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology
Pan Jian-Wei, University of Science and Technology of China
Hilmi Volkan Demir, Quantum Devices and Sensors Research Group at Bilkent