Daily Archives: January 21, 2024

Scientists achieve groundbreaking room-temperature quantum coherence for 100 nanoseconds, propelling molecular qubits closer to practical quantum computing.

Scientists have recently managed to maintain quantum coherence in a molecular qubit for over one hundred nanoseconds at room temperature, hinting at potential breakthroughs in quantum computing.

Quantum computers could revolutionize information technology by changing the paradigm of computing. This is attributed to their basic units, called qubits, which can exist inany combination of states, unlike classical bits constrained to a definite value of 1 or 0. Due to this infinite variety of qubit states, a quantum computer should be able to easily handle computational problems that would take a conventional computer trillions of years to solve.

Scientists have successfully created qubits from particles such as photons, atoms, individual electrons, or even a superconducting loop. However, creating a qubit is one thing, building a working quantum computer out of thousands or even millions of qubits is an entirely different challenge, and attempts thus far have been fraught with substantial difficulties.

For a quantum computer to work, it is necessary to establish and manipulate subtle quantum interactions among multiple qubits a state known as entanglement. However, for this to work, the qubits themselves need to remain stable or coherent, which means keeping it in a well-defined quantum state. The problem is, coherence is difficult to maintain as it easily crumbles when qubits interact with their surroundings even radiation from space can throw them.

To solve this, a team of Japanese researchers led by Nobuhiro Yanai, associate professor at Kyushu University, has engineered a stable qubit using a special structure called a metal-organic framework. This structure involves combining pentacene molecules (made up of five connected benzene rings) with zirconium ions and organic dicarboxylate ligands. The pentacene molecules act like bridges, linking the ligands and ions together into a framework made up of both organic molecules and metal ionshence the name.

The role of the qubit was played by a pair of neighboring pentacene molecules, which were coupled and exist within five different quantum states achieved by irradiating the metal-organic framework with various wavelengths of microwave radiation.

The metal-organic frameworks nanoscale voids offer the pentacene molecules a degree of freedom, but ultimately restricts their full movement under the radiations influence, ensuring they formed a desired quantum state and remained trapped in it for a significant amount of time.

The metal-organic framework in this work is a unique system that can densely accumulate [pentacene molecules], said Yanai in a press release. Additionally, the nanopores inside the crystal enable [them] to rotate, but at a very restrained angle.

The most important result of the study was that the team could maintain coherence for more than a hundred nanoseconds at room temperature, whereas previously this could only be achieved in similar systems at incredibly cold temperatures of about -200 degrees Celsius. At such temperatures, it was possible to maintain coherence only in photonic qubits, but in addition to needing such extreme conditions to operate, quantum computers using these photon qubits suffer from photon leakage.

Maintaining cryogenic temperatures is not only expensive but complicates the entire computing setup. Thus, creating a stable qubit that operates at room temperature is an impressive and practical achievement.

Looking ahead, the scientists are optimistic about extending coherence for even longer periods. They believe that by designing improved metal-organic frameworks and identifying more suitable molecules for qubits, they can push the boundaries further.

It will be possible to generate quintet [] state qubits more efficiently in the future by searching for guest molecules that can induce more such suppressed motions and by developing suitable metal-organic framework structures, concluded Yanai. This can open doors to room-temperature molecular quantum computing.

Reference: Akio Yamauchi et al, Room-temperature quantum coherence of entangled multiexcitons in a metal-organic framework, Science Advances (2024), DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adi3147

Feature image credit: geralt on Pixabay

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Breakthrough in quantum computing with stable room temperature qubits - Advanced Science News

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Quantum computing is seen as the next stage of computing and IonQ (NASDAQ:IONQ) rode that wave to huge gains in 2023. But the reality of where the market is at in its life cycle is bringing shares down to earth. This will have important implications for IONQ stock moving forward.

After surging 259% last year IONQ stock is down 13% year to date and 50% below its 52-week high hit last summer. Thats undoubtedly because quantum computing hasnt even learned to walk yet let alone get up to the running stage IonQs stock suggests it should be at. There are no real practical uses yet for the current phase of the technology, the hardware isnt up to speed, and there are a lot of problems with the technology. Other than that everything is great!

The following are the primary reasons investors should take a go-slow approach before investing in IONQ stock.

The promise of quantum computing is like the 4-D chess of computing. Where traditional computers break data into very two-dimensional 1s and 0s, quantum computers use quantum bits, or qubits, which put those digits into superposition. That means they can be a 1, a 0, or both at the same time. Or they can be an infinite number of possibilities in between. They also possess a property called entanglement, which is like superposition on steroids. The qubits can communicate and cooperate, expanding their possible permutations.

Quantum computers can take all that data and explore the numerous complex patterns of probability occurring to determine the probability of any particular outcome happening. It allows quantum computers to determine all potential outcomes simultaneously.

Yeah, my brain is just cramped writing that, but quantum computing has many possible real-world uses. For example, it could determine the optimal route to take for a delivery truck or design new drugs. They could also be used to hack supposedly secure encryption data. Theres a very dark side to their usage to go along with the light. The only problem is theyre not very good at what they do yet.

While IonQ and others make quantum computers, the devices cant make the hyperscale calculations their potential says they can. A regular computer is often better at it right now. Nor are they any faster than classic computers. Quantum computers might be slower depending on the calculation.

Its going to take a lot more development to make quantum computing a reality and thats why IONQ stock is falling.

Even though there are use cases for quantum computers, they are not practical enough for businesses to adopt them yet. IonQ makes access to its quantum computers available on the cloud computing platforms of Amazon (NASDAQ:AMZN), Microsoft (NASDAQ:MSFT), and Alphabets (NASDAQ:GOOG)(NASDAQ:GOOGL) Google. Year-to-date revenue, though, is less than $16 million. While thats more than double the year-ago figure, it speaks to a very small, limited market.

There are other limiting factors for quantum computers too, including the fact they are prone to errors. Because of their sensitivity, qubits can make substantial errors due to environmental disturbances, even very small ones. Its called decoherence and it causes the qubits to lose their quantum capabilities.

IonQ has a workaround for the problem in development. It believes error mitigation rather than error correction using trapped ions will allow it to resolve issues faster. It says error mitigation will allow it to reach #AQ 64 status, which is where regular computers can no longer fully simulate an IonQ computer. That will make quantum computers more valuable.

When that happens IonQ says it will be a watershed for quantum computing the way ChatGPT was for artificial intelligence. CEO Peter Chapman told industry site HPC Wire, My guess is that just like ChatGPT, the world will be like a baseball bat to their head, like, Oh, my God quantum is here and why did I miss it?

Perhaps, but there is still a long way to go before we get there. In the meantime, IONQ stock will undoubtedly be volatile and investors should step gingerly if theyre thinking about buying in.

On the date of publication, Rich Duprey did not hold (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com Publishing Guidelines.

Rich Duprey has written about stocks and investing for the past 20 years. His articles have appeared on Nasdaq.com, The Motley Fool, and Yahoo! Finance, and he has been referenced by U.S. and international publications, including MarketWatch, Financial Times, Forbes, Fast Company, USA Today, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, Cheddar News, The Boston Globe, LExpress, and numerous other news outlets.

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Why IONQ Is Not a Stock to Buy (Yet) - InvestorPlace

With help from Christine Mui and Steven Overly

Participants waiting for a session at the 2024 meeting of the World Economic Forum. | Fabrice Coffrini/AFP via Getty Images

Davos wants you to plan to have a plan on quantum technology.

The World Economic Forum that sponsors the annual Switzerland confab released a Quantum Economy Blueprint today its first major paper on how a global economy centered around quantum technology might develop, even as many skeptics say the technology isnt yet ready for prime time.

Its authors, a trio of researchers from the WEF, AI and quantum startup SandboxAQ, and IBM, lay out a set of recommendations and examples for how countries can find their fit in the global development of quantum computing, sensing, and communications technologies especially as China invests billions into the technology largely in isolation from the West.

If youve been reading DFDs past coverage of quantum developments, you might be wondering: Isnt it a bit early for this? Thats what the reports authors are counting on, writing that seizing on an early adopter advantage will allow governments to get infrastructure in place to ensure all countries are able to benefit from the gradual replacement of zeroes and ones by superposition and entanglement.

Notably, the report, with the full backing of the WEF, makes assumptions about quantum that are decidedly up for debate in the wider research community. Those include: it will be possible to build a useful, fully programmable universal fault-tolerant quantum computer; quantum computing will make the computation of specific problems more efficient or precise, and that quantum utility, the ability for existing quantum computers to solve problems beyond classical computings reach, has been demonstrated.

(Some in the commercial sector even say the WEF isnt bullish enough Allison Schwartz, government relations lead for commercial quantum company D-Wave, told DFD in a statement that the report narrowly focuses on a single approach that is far from market readiness in a manner that skews the timelines for adoption and near-term application development.)

With that in mind I pinged Sergio Gago Huerta, head of quantum at Moodys and someone who does not hesitate to call out quantum hype as the author of the Quantum Pirates Substack newsletter. Huerta was all in favor of the blueprint, saying that by focusing on governance and infrastructure it provides helpful pointers to pretty much anyone hoping to compete or even participate in the quantum economy.

Every country should have their own quantum program, either as part of a coalition or by themselves, Huerta wrote in an email. He noted that while many countries tend to focus on quantum as a cyber threat the ability of quantum computers to bust traditional cryptography is one of the most well-established findings in the field the report provides welcome focus on other technologies like quantum sensing and metrology, something governments will need to provide enough support, governance and training [for]... in order to stay relevant and keep a competitive advantage.

Celia Merzbacher, executive director of the Quantum Economic Development Consortium that aims to grow quantum in the U.S., was a consultant on the report. She praised its analysis of the complex landscape facing nations on quantum and said it would be useful to anyone working right now in the quantum technology stack.

The report takes a granular dive into nations quantum building blocks, from national research funding to politics to worker training, and finds not surprisingly that the most successful innovation efforts come from deeply interconnected and collaborative ecosystems.

One example they cite is the United Kingdoms National Quantum Strategy: In that case, pumping a billion-plus British pounds into the U.K.s research infrastructure led to a successful effort to develop commercial applications for quantum in fields like the automotive industry, telecom, and defense.

At a smaller scale, that virtuous-cycle collaboration tends to cross national boundaries, like in the case of the Quantum Leap Africa program that saw five nations team up to gather top students from across the continent and educate them about quantum.

The U.S. National Quantum Initiative, authorized by a $1.2 billion bill passed in 2018, has placed Washington at the center of this global conversation even as its re-authorization lingers in Congressional limbo. The report contains plenty of detail about the U.S. quantum push and its ripples throughout the global economy, as well as the importance of maintaining a quantum advantage to defense and national security. Where its decidedly more circumspect, however, is on exactly what those geopolitical threats are: State Department official Rick Switzer is quoted saying its critical that the United States and our allies retain access to key components in the quantum supply chain, requiring policy-makers to account for the geopolitics surrounding this access.

By geopolitics, he means China and the repercussions for quantum in what the New York Times called Americas silicon blockade against Beijing. The WEF report notes that China has spent $15 billion on quantum, more than the U.S., U.K., France and Germany combined.

The number of times China itself is referenced in the report? Exactly two, a far cry from the in-depth treatment other nations quantum strategies get. Anyone who tracks quantum development (or any other technology, for that matter) in the West knows that potential threat from Beijing is a huge political motivator for quantum policy, especially when it comes to cybersecurity. Davos plan might be a globally collaborative one, but as with so many other tech policy issues, theres a large elephant in the room thats central to its analysis while remaining oddly silent.

Also in Davos, India made its case as a democratic alternative source for electronics manufacturing to China.

The worlds fifth-largest economy for years lagged on making microchips, lacking the specialized hardware and skilled talent needed to grow the industry. Then in late 2021, the Modi government offered up $10 billion in incentives, luring companies like Micron and Tata Group to invest in new fabs. With nine semiconductor manufacturing proposals on the table, India is eager for more.

Speaking at the WEF, Chip War author Chris Miller drew parallels between India and past success stories: Taiwan, South Korea started a half century ago developing their chip industries, and today theyre the world leaders. And so I think theres no doubt that India is beginning to follow that path.

But the country wont dive into the competition around cutting-edge chips thats captured governments around the world yet choosing to first focus on legacy chips for telecommunications and cars, Indian Cabinet Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw told the panel. Asked about future pressure to take sides between China and the West, Vaishnaw dodged, saying we dont think that its a battle and that circumstances are too complex and too dynamic to imagine what could happen in a decade.

Indias semiconductor moves piqued the interest of the Netherlands, a chipmaking equipment powerhouse thats all too familiar with getting caught in the U.S.-China faceoff. Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs and Climate Micky Adriaansens called India a different story from China and reiterated its plan to join forces with like-minded countries. Christine Mui

A fundamental question hangs over the global debate over how to regulate artificial intelligence: open or closed?

That is, should the most powerful AI systems be widely available to any interested developer or under the tight control of just a few players? Top politicos and tech minds grappled with that topic in Davos, including at POLITICO Lives own AI debate on Tuesday.

In the U.S., Assistant Secretary of Commerce Alan Davidson said the answer may not be so binary.

Weve learned that theres a real gradient of openness, and that we may be able to find ways, we have to be able to find ways, to support innovation and competition, but also protect safety and security as we open up these systems, Davidson told the POLITICO Tech podcast.

Davidson heads the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, which has been tasked by the White House with studying the open vs. closed question. He made the case that while closed systems are seemingly easier to close off to bad actors, they also concentrate power in the hands of a small number of tech companies, many of which already exert significant influence over our daily lives.

We know that its very powerful if you can democratize access to these technologies, Davidson said. Its good for innovation. It actually can be good for safety and security. Steven Overly

Listen to the full interview with Davidson on todays POLITICO Tech.

Stay in touch with the whole team: Ben Schreckinger ([emailprotected]); Derek Robertson ([emailprotected]); Mohar Chatterjee ([emailprotected]); Steve Heuser ([emailprotected]); Nate Robson ([emailprotected]); Daniella Cheslow ([emailprotected]); and Christine Mui ([emailprotected]).

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Davos and the global state of quantum - POLITICO

In todays fast-paced financial landscape, high-frequency transactions have become a vital component of modern trading strategies. These transactions involve the rapid buying and selling of financial instruments, taking advantage of small price differentials to generate profits. However, with the emergence of quantum artificial intelligence (AI), there is now an opportunity to revolutionize high-frequency transactions and enhance their effectiveness.

Before delving into the potential collaboration between high-frequency transactions and quantum AI, lets first establish a clear understanding of what high-frequency transactions entail.

High-frequency trading (HFT) relies on advanced algorithms and powerful computational systems to execute trades within fractions of a second. These trades are typically carried out in large volumes, enabling traders to capitalize on even the smallest price discrepancies.

Market participants engaging in these transactions often employ sophisticated strategies, such as statistical arbitrage, market making, and momentum trading. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and lightning-fast execution, high-frequency traders aim to gain a competitive edge in the market.

High-frequency trading (HFT) is a complex and dynamic field that has revolutionized the financial markets. By utilizing advanced algorithms and powerful computational systems, high-frequency traders are able to execute trades within fractions of a second. This lightning-fast speed allows them to take advantage of even the smallest price discrepancies, enabling them to generate substantial profits.

One of the key strategies employed by high-frequency traders is statistical arbitrage. This strategy involves identifying and exploiting pricing anomalies in the market by analyzing large sets of historical data. By utilizing sophisticated statistical models, high-frequency traders are able to identify patterns and trends that can be leveraged to generate profits.

Another common strategy used by high-frequency traders is market making. Market makers play a crucial role in ensuring liquidity in the market by continuously providing buy and sell quotes for a particular security. High-frequency traders excel at market making due to their ability to rapidly adjust their quotes in response to market conditions. This allows them to profit from the bid-ask spread, which is the difference between the highest price a buyer is willing to pay and the lowest price a seller is willing to accept.

Momentum trading is yet another strategy employed by high-frequency traders. This strategy involves capitalizing on short-term price trends and market momentum. By analyzing price movements and volume data, high-frequency traders are able to identify stocks that are experiencing significant upward or downward momentum. They then execute trades in the direction of the momentum, aiming to profit from the continuation of the trend.

In recent years, high-frequency transactions have become increasingly prevalent in financial markets. They contribute significantly to market liquidity, ensuring smooth functioning and efficient price discovery.

Moreover, high-frequency transactions play a vital role in narrowing bid-ask spreads, reducing transaction costs, and enhancing overall market efficiency. By executing a high volume of trades with minimal time intervals, HFT firms facilitate price convergence and improve market fairness.

High-frequency trading has also been instrumental in reducing market volatility. By quickly reacting to market events and adjusting their trading strategies accordingly, high-frequency traders help stabilize prices and prevent excessive price swings. This increased stability benefits all market participants, from individual investors to large institutional traders.

Furthermore, high-frequency trading has spurred innovation in the financial industry. The need for lightning-fast execution and advanced technological infrastructure has led to significant advancements in computer hardware, software, and networking. These advancements not only benefit high-frequency traders but also have broader applications in other areas of finance and technology.

In conclusion, high-frequency transactions have revolutionized the financial markets, providing increased liquidity, narrowing bid-ask spreads, reducing transaction costs, and improving overall market efficiency. With their advanced algorithms and lightning-fast execution, high-frequency traders continue to play a crucial role in shaping the modern trading landscape.

Quantum AI represents a groundbreaking leap in the field of artificial intelligence, harnessing the power of quantum computing to revolutionize data analysis and decision-making processes.

Quantum AI refers to the utilization of quantum computational techniques to develop advanced AI models and algorithms. Unlike classical computing, which relies on binary bits, quantum computing utilizes quantum bits, or qubits, enabling exponentially faster computational speed and greater problem-solving capabilities.

By harnessing the principles of quantum mechanics, quantum AI can process vast amounts of data simultaneously, thereby enabling more accurate and sophisticated predictions and insights.

Quantum AI holds immense potential for the financial markets, offering capabilities to analyze complex market dynamics and develop superior trading strategies. Its ability to handle vast datasets and perform rapid computations makes it an ideal tool for optimizing high-frequency transactions.

Quantum AI can enhance risk assessment techniques, identify patterns in market data, and detect subtle anomalies that may not be apparent to traditional computing systems. By leveraging this technology, traders can make more informed decisions and potentially increase their profitability in high-frequency trading strategies.

As both high-frequency transactions and quantum AI continue to evolve, the intersection between these two disciplines presents exciting possibilities.

Theoretically, quantum AI can be employed to optimize the execution of high-frequency transactions. By leveraging quantum computing algorithms, traders can analyze vast amounts of market data in real-time and identify profitable trade opportunities with unparalleled precision.

Furthermore, quantum AI can aid in reducing transaction costs by optimizing trade execution strategies, minimizing slippage, and mitigating market impact, ultimately improving overall trade performance.

However, the practical implementation of quantum AI in high-frequency transactions poses some challenges. The integration of quantum computing systems with existing infrastructure and regulatory frameworks requires careful consideration.

Additionally, the development and optimization of quantum algorithms for high-frequency trading strategies demand extensive research and development efforts. Collaborations between financial institutions, technology companies, and academic researchers are crucial to overcoming these challenges and realizing the full potential of quantum AI in high-frequency transactions.

While the potential benefits of quantum AI in high-frequency transactions are immense, several roadblocks need to be addressed to ensure successful integration.

One significant challenge lies in the hardware requirements for quantum computing. Quantum computers are still in the early stages of development, with limited qubit capacities and high error rates. Overcoming these limitations and building scalable quantum systems is crucial for effectively implementing quantum AI in high-frequency transactions.

Moreover, the cybersecurity implications of quantum computing cannot be ignored. Quantum computers have the potential to crack the encryption algorithms currently used to secure financial transactions. Developing quantum-resistant encryption methods is imperative for maintaining the integrity and security of high-frequency trading systems.

To address these challenges, collaborations between quantum computing experts, financial institutions, and regulators are necessary. Robust research and development initiatives should focus on improving hardware capabilities, optimizing quantum algorithms for financial applications, and developing quantum-safe encryption protocols.

Furthermore, adequate training and education programs should be established to equip market participants with the necessary skills to leverage quantum AI effectively. By fostering a collaborative environment, the financial industry can pave the way for seamless integration of quantum AI into high-frequency transactions.

As quantum AI continues to advance, and the field of high-frequency transactions evolves, the future of their collaboration holds immense promise.

Going forward, we can anticipate the development of more robust quantum computing systems, capable of handling increasingly complex financial models and datasets. The integration of quantum AI into high-frequency trading strategies may become more widespread, leading to significant improvements in trading performance and profitability.

The long-term impact of collaborating quantum AI with high-frequency transactions extends beyond individual trading strategies. It has the potential to reshape market dynamics, enhance market fairness, and democratize access to advanced trading technologies.

Furthermore, the application of quantum AI in high-frequency transactions may contribute to the development of innovative investment products and financial instruments, expanding the range of opportunities available to market participants.

As technology continues to evolve, it is essential to closely monitor the advancements in quantum AI and its implications for high-frequency transactions. By embracing these developments, financial market participants can stay at the forefront of innovation and position themselves for success in an increasingly competitive landscape.

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High-Frequency Transactions: Collaborating with Quantum AI? Features Film Threat - Film Threat

Quantum Computing: Revolution on the Horizon?

The world of computing is on the cusp of a paradigm shift. Enter quantum computers, harnessing the bizarre laws of quantum mechanics to tackle problems beyond the reach of even our most powerful classical machines. While still in their nascent stages, these marvels of engineering hold the potential to revolutionize fields from medicine and materials science to finance and artificial intelligence.

So, what exactly is a quantum computer?

Unlike your trusty laptop, which relies on bits that can be either 0 or 1, quantum computers leverage the mind-bending properties of qubits. These qubits can exist in a state of superposition, being both 0 and 1 simultaneously. This, coupled with the phenomenon of entanglement (where qubits become linked, regardless of distance), allows quantum computers to explore a vast multitude of possibilities at once. Imagine sifting through a labyrinth of possibilities, not one path at a time, but all of them concurrently that's the power of superposition and entanglement.

Current Developments:

The field of quantum computing is rapidly evolving, with constant breakthroughs pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Here are some exciting developments to keep an eye on:

Googles Sycamore:

In 2019, Googles Sycamore quantum computer achieved "quantum supremacy," performing a calculation in minutes that would take a classical computer years. This marked a significant milestone in the fields progress. Error Correction:

One of the biggest challenges in quantum computing is maintaining the delicate state of qubits. Researchers are developing sophisticated error correction techniques to ensure the accuracy of computations.

Material Advancements:

Building qubits requires manipulating matter at the atomic level. New materials like topological superconductors are being explored for their potential to host stable and scalable qubits.

Quantum Computings Potential:

The potential applications of quantum computing are vast and transformative. Here are just a few examples:

Drug Discovery:

Simulating complex molecules could lead to the design of new drugs and materials with unprecedented properties.

Financial Modeling:

Quantum algorithms could unlock new insights into financial markets, leading to more efficient and stable systems.

Artificial Intelligence: Quantum computing could boost the power of AI, enabling machines to tackle even more complex problems like natural language processing and image recognition. Cryptography: While posing a threat to current encryption methods, quantum computing can also pave the way for unbreakable forms of cryptography.

Beyond the Hype:

It's important to remember that quantum computing is still in its early stages. Building large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers remains a significant challenge. Moreover, not all problems will benefit from quantum speed-up. Identifying tasks where quantum computers offer a clear advantage will be crucial for their successful integration into various industries.

Extra Points to Ponder:

The Quantum Workforce: As quantum computing matures, new jobs and skillsets will emerge. Preparing the workforce for this quantum revolution is essential. Ethical Considerations:The immense power of quantum computing raises ethical concerns, such as the potential misuse of its capabilities in fields like cryptography and artificial intelligence. Open discussions and regulations are necessary to ensure responsible development and deployment. International Collaboration: Quantum computing is a global endeavor. Fostering international collaboration will be key to accelerating progress and ensuring equitable access to this transformative technology.

The journey into the quantum realm is just beginning. While challenges lie ahead, the potential rewards are too profound to ignore. Quantum computing has the power to reshape our world, from the way we design materials to how we understand intelligence itself. It's a revolution waiting to happen, and we're all front-row witnesses to its unfolding story.

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Quantum Computing: Revolution on the Horizon? | by Shan | Jan, 2024 - Medium

The advent of quantum computers carries a potent threat to data encryption, potentially leading to catastrophic impacts on mission-critical infrastructure. With power utilities, hospitals, banks, and transit systems becoming increasingly digitalized, the menace of quantum hacking looms large. The U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency has issued an alert, underscoring the urgency to prepare for quantum threats. It is vital for organizations to assess their current security posture, develop a quantum roadmap, and implement quantum-safe solutions to defend against these threats.

Quantum computers differ significantly from conventional computers. They possess exponential speed and power, enabling them to break traditional encryption methods in a fraction of the time it would take a regular computer. This immense potential makes quantum computers a significant threat to critical infrastructure, especially for smaller companies and municipal infrastructure operations that might lack the resources to counter such advanced threats.

Preparing for the day when quantum computers can compromise traditional encryption methods, often referred to as Q-Day, is crucial. Organizations must prioritize the protection of high-impact assets. Developing a quantum roadmap and assessing the current security posture are essential steps in preparing for this threat. Utilizing encryption methods and key distribution techniques that ensure data integrity can provide protection against quantum attacks.

The World Economic Forum (WEF) has raised concerns about the potential impact of quantum computing on critical infrastructure. It could pose radical global risks with the ability to break public key encryption, potentially leading to the paralysis of national or global critical infrastructure. The report also warns about the acceleration of risks presented by other emerging technologies and the potential for cyberattacks. Criminal actors are already launching attacks on encrypted data in anticipation of cryptographically relevant quantum computers being available.

Quantum computing is also posing significant challenges to corporate security and privacy compliance. Its potential to revolutionize various industries and threaten traditional encryption methods is a cause for concern. Post-quantum cryptography is seen as a potential solution to protect against quantum computing threats. Regulatory bodies in the EU and Canada are assessing the potential impacts of quantum computing on various sectors, underlining the need for quantum-resistant algorithms to safeguard data against the threat of quantum computers.

Quantum computing presents both opportunities and challenges for the modern enterprise. It is expected to help solve complex problems but also poses a risk to traditional cryptographic systems. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has selected four quantum-resistant algorithms for standardization, three of which were contributed by IBM researchers and partners. Organizations are advised to create a quantum readiness roadmap for transitioning to these standards. Becoming quantum-safe involves three critical steps: discovering, observing, and transforming the cryptography infrastructure.

Large Language Models (LLM) are redefining cybersecurity operations. The cybersecurity workforce is expected to grow, reaching its highest number ever with 5.5 million people in cybersecurity jobs. However, cybersecurity teams should be aware of the hidden risks associated with them. The year 2023 had unexpected twists in cybersecurity, driving organizations to plan their security strategies for 2024 and beyond. As quantum computing continues to evolve, its clear that the cybersecurity landscape must adapt to meet the challenges of this new era.

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Quantum Computing: An Emerging Threat to Cybersecurity - Medriva

Quantum computing, the next frontier in information technology, is not just bringing new opportunities, but also posing significant challenges in corporate security and privacy compliance. Its arrival has been marked with a wave of excitement and concern in equal measure due to its potential to revolutionize various industries, including healthcare, and its ability to threaten traditional encryption methods. This article delves into the implications of quantum computing and the need for post-quantum cryptography to protect against its threats.

Unlike classical computers which use bits representing either 0 or 1, quantum computers use qubits that can represent 0 and 1 simultaneously. This characteristic allows quantum computers to process information at an exponentially faster rate than classical computers. The increased processing power, while advantageous in many fields, poses a significant threat to traditional encryption methods and calls for a re-evaluation of data protection and security compliance.

Post-quantum cryptography is seen as a potential solution to protect against quantum computing threats. It involves the creation of cryptographic systems that can withstand attacks from both classical and quantum computers. To address this, organizations are encouraged to create a quantum readiness roadmap, and follow three critical steps: discover, observe, and transform their cryptography. As artificial intelligence continues to evolve, organizations are urged to consider the impact of Generative Artificial Intelligence (GenAI) and adopt a holistic approach to IT and OT cybersecurity.

Regulation plays an essential role in managing the impact of quantum computing. In the EU and Canada, regulatory bodies are assessing the potential impacts of quantum computing on various sectors, including the insurance industry. Financial institutions are being encouraged to assess their quantum-readiness, with the development of rules, interpretation of legislation and regulation, and provision of regulatory approvals for certain types of transactions being key areas of focus.

Quantum computing has the potential to revolutionize various fields, from healthcare to financial services. Managed Service Providers (MSPs) have a critical role in helping small and medium-sized enterprises manage their cybersecurity needs effectively in this new era. They offer insights, strategies, and comprehensive IT and security services to mitigate risks and protect against cyber threats.

The rise of quantum computing calls for a paradigm shift in cybersecurity. Quantum-resistant algorithms are being developed to safeguard data against the threat of quantum computers. Groundbreaking inventions in the field, like the quantum authentication and private data computing method patented by Quantum Computing Inc (QCi), offer promising solutions. This technology allows for processing and verifying information without sharing that information, effectively securing identity authentication, data mining, and digital assets in an untrusted environment.

In conclusion, while quantum computing offers unprecedented opportunities, it also raises concerns about corporate security and privacy compliance. Organizations need to adopt a proactive approach to quantum readiness, embracing the potential of post-quantum cryptography, and leveraging the expertise of MSPs. Regulation will play a key role in managing the impact of this technology, and quantum-resistant algorithms could be the future of cybersecurity.

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Quantum Computing and Its Impact on Corporate Security and Privacy Compliance - Medriva

5 min read

Quantum technology is a rapidly evolving field that harnesses the unique properties of quantum mechanics to develop revolutionary applications. It leverages the fundamental rules that govern the smallest things in our universe atoms and smaller particles, very small distances, and minimal energies. These technologies make use of the quantum properties of single atoms or particles of light. They include sensors, communication networks, and computers. Quantum technologies are expected to impact many aspects of our society, including health care, financial services, defense, weather modeling, and cybersecurity.

At the heart of quantum technology are quantum bits, or qubits. Qubits are the quantum analog of bits, the carriers of digital information. Unlike classical bits that can be either 0 or 1, qubits can exist in a superposition of states, meaning they can be both 0 and 1 at the same time. This allows qubits to encode more information than classical bits and enables the massive parallelism that gives quantum computers their potential computing power. A variety of physical systems from atoms to particles of light to superconducting circuits can encode qubits.

The key difference between bits and qubits lies in the concept of superposition. While a bit can be in one state at any given time (either 0 or 1), a qubit can be in a superposition of states, meaning it can be in both states 0 and 1 at the same time. This property allows qubits to hold more information and perform complex calculations more efficiently than bits.

In addition, qubits can also be entangled, a unique quantum property that allows particles to be connected in such a way that the state of one particle can instantly affect the state of another, no matter how far apart they are. This entanglement property, along with superposition, gives quantum computers their superior computing power.

However, creating and maintaining qubits is a complex task, as they require very specific conditions such as extremely low temperatures or high vacuum environments. Despite these challenges, the potential of quantum computing is driving research and innovation in creating more stable and usable qubits.

There are several types of qubits that are used in quantum technology. Here are the ones you mentioned:

Each type of qubit has its own advantages and is suited to different quantum technologies. The choice of qubit can depend on the specific requirements of the quantum technology application. For example, superconducting qubits might be preferred for quantum computing due to their scalability, while photonic qubits might be preferred for quantum communication due to their ability to transmit quantum information over long distances.

Quantum computing is a rapidly evolving field that leverages the principles of quantum mechanics to perform computations. At the heart of quantum computing are quantum bits, or qubits.

Qubits are the fundamental units of information in quantum computing, analogous to bits in classical computing. Unlike classical bits, which can only exist in one of two states (0 or 1), qubits can exist in a superposition of states. This means a qubit can be in both states 0 and 1 simultaneously. This property of qubits, known as superposition, is fundamental to quantum computing.

Superposition allows quantum computers to process vast amounts of data simultaneously, enabling them to solve specific complex problems at speeds unimaginable for classical computers. The state of a single qubit can be described by a two-dimensional column vector of unit norm, holding all the information needed to describe the one-qubit quantum system.

Superdense coding is a quantum communication protocol that allows a number of classical bits of information to be communicated by only transmitting a smaller number of qubits. This is made possible by the fact that a qubit in superposition can represent more information than a classical bit. In its simplest form, superdense coding allows two bits of information to be transmitted by sending only one qubit. This is possible under the assumption of sender and receiver pre-sharing an entangled resource.

In summary, the ability of qubits to exist in a superposition of states is fundamental to quantum computing, and the concept of superdense coding allows a qubit to hold more information than a classical bit, demonstrating the immense potential of quantum technologies.

Understanding qubits is crucial in the context of quantum technology. As the fundamental units of information in quantum computing, qubits leverage the principles of quantum mechanics to perform computations. Unlike classical bits, qubits can exist in a superposition of states, enabling them to process vast amounts of data simultaneously. This property is fundamental to quantum computing and demonstrates the immense potential of quantum technologies.

The current state of research in quantum technology is vibrant and rapidly evolving. Scientists and researchers around the world are continually exploring new ways to manipulate and control qubits, with the aim of building more powerful and efficient quantum computers. The field is witnessing significant advancements, from the development of new types of qubits to the discovery of novel quantum algorithms.

Looking ahead, the future prospects of quantum technology are promising. As our understanding of qubits and quantum mechanics deepens, we can expect to see quantum technology becoming increasingly integrated into our everyday lives. From quantum computing and quantum communication to quantum sensing and quantum cryptography, the applications of quantum technology are vast and far-reaching.

In conclusion, the study of qubits is not just about understanding the building blocks of quantum technology; its about unlocking the potential of a technology that could revolutionize our world. As we continue to explore the quantum realm, who knows what exciting discoveries await us?

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Qubits. Introduction | by Vallabh Shrimangale | Jan, 2024 - Medium

By Ken Briodagh

Senior Technology Editor

Embedded Computing Design

January 19, 2024

News

Honeywell has joined a $300 millionequity fundraise for Quantinuum, an integrated quantum computing company, at a pre-money valuation of$5 billion. The technology giant was joined by JPMorgan Chase, Mitsui & Co., and Amgen, though Honeywell remains the company's majority shareholder. This investment brings Quantinuum to about $625 million in investments, according to the release.

This was the first funding round for Quantinuum since Cambridge Quantum Computing and Honeywell Quantum Solutions merged inNovember 2021 to form the company. According to the announcement, the money will be used to pursue the companys goal of building the world's first universal fault-tolerant quantum computers.

JPMorgan Chase has been a supporter and advisor since the beginning and reportedly was one of the earliest experimental users of Quantinuum's H-Series quantum processor and one of the most active corporate partners using Quantinuum's SDK, TKET.

Financial services has been identified as one of the first industries that will benefit from quantum technologies, said Lori Beer, Global Chief Information Officer, JPMorgan Chase. We look forward to continuing to work together to positively impact our businesses, customers and the industry at large.

Quantinuum's technologies reportedly are in use at many companies, including Airbus, BMW Group, Honeywell, HSBC, JPMorgan Chase, Mitsui and Thales. These organizations are exploring how to engineer and scale quantum capabilities to help solve some of world's most challenging problems from designing and manufacturing hydrogen cell batteries for transportation, to developing materials to sequester carbon safely from the atmosphere to support the world's energy transition. Quantinuum is also at the forefront of developing Quantum Natural Language Processing, which will help enable the next generation of AI to be scalable and fit for purpose.

The successful completion of this investment round is a testament to Quantinuum's evolution and maturation in the quantum space, said Darius Adamczyk, Executive Chairman of Honeywell and Chairman of the Board of Quantinuum.

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC served as exclusive placement agent to Quantinuum in connection with the financing. Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer US acted as external legal counsel.

The confidence in our business demonstrated through this investment by our longstanding strategic partners and industry leaders is a clear indication of the value we will continue to create with the world's highest performing quantum computers, groundbreaking middleware to accelerate the developer ecosystem and innovative application software to revolutionize fields like cryptography, computational chemistry, and AI," said Rajeeb Hazra, CEO of Quantinuum.

Ken Briodagh is a writer and editor with two decades of experience under his belt. He is in love with technology and if he had his druthers, he would beta test everything from shoe phones to flying cars. In previous lives, hes been a short order cook, telemarketer, medical supply technician, mover of the bodies at a funeral home, pirate, poet, partial alliterist, parent, partner and pretender to various thrones. Most of his exploits are either exaggerated or blatantly false.

More from Ken

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Honeywell Dives into Quantum Computing with Investment in $5 Billion Company - Embedded Computing Design

Hey, tech enthusiasts! As we stand on the brink of 2024, the world of technology is gearing up for an explosive year. Buckle up, because were about to unveil the seven tech trends that will reshape our digital landscape and define the future.

Quantum computing is no longer a distant dream. In 2024, were witnessing the rise of quantum supremacy, where computers will solve complex problems at an unprecedented speed. Brace yourself for a new era in computational power.

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Get ready to witness the technological marvels of 2024. These seven trends are not just a glimpse into the future they are the future. Stay savvy, stay connected, and embrace the wave of innovation that is set to define the tech landscape in the coming year!

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The 7 Tech Trends You Can't Afford to Miss in 2024! - Medium