Quantum computing is on the verge of breakthrough: Sundar Pichai
What's the story
Google CEO Sundar Pichai has said that quantum computing is on the brink of a major breakthrough, similar to what artificial intelligence (AI) experienced five years ago. In an interview with BBC, he said Google's quantum program is nearing a tipping point. "I would say quantum is there where maybe AI was 5 years ago," he said, adding that "in five years from now we'll be going through a very exciting phase in quantum."
Strategic focus
Google's investment in quantum computing
Pichai also revealed that Google is investing heavily in this next phase of quantum computing. His comments have led to speculation among investors and tech enthusiasts about the future of deep tech. The CEO described quantum computing as a fundamental shift, not just another tech upgrade, and said Google is at the forefront of quantum research.
Societal impact
Quantum computing's potential societal benefits
Pichai emphasized that quantum computing could offer many societal benefits, as it is based on the principles of quantum mechanics that govern nature and the universe. "We have the state-of-the-art quantum computing efforts in the world...building quantum systems I think will help us better simulate and understand nature and unlock many benefits for society," he said. This comes after Google developed an algorithm called "Quantum Echoes" on its "Willow" quantum computing chip.
Future prospects
Quantum computing's potential applications
Quantum computing, an advanced form of computation using quantum mechanics to solve complex problems, could have applications in encryption, drug discovery, materials science, and logistics. Pichai's comments have sparked discussions among investors and netizens about the future of quantum technology. One X user compared Pichai's remarks to early AI hints that went unnoticed before valuations skyrocketed.