Quantum computing: stepping into a new reality
When I first heard about quantum computing, I struggled to grasp what it truly meant.
The idea of a machine capable of calculations millions of times faster than my everyday laptop felt surreal. Was it science or magic?
Fast forward to 2025, and quantum computing has stepped out of the realm of science fiction. It’s no longer a far-off idea; it’s something we’re beginning to see in action, reshaping the world around us.
This year, the United Nations designated 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology.
At first, that might sound ceremonial, but in truth, it’s a recognition of just how critical quantum breakthroughs have become. From transforming healthcare to revolutionising logistics, quantum computing is rewriting the rules of what’s possible.
What makes quantum computing unique?
To really understand quantum computing, you have to think differently. Let’s use a metaphor.
Imagine you’re looking for a single book in a massive library. A traditional computer searches shelf by shelf, methodically working through each section.
A quantum computer, though? It looks at every shelf at once. That’s the magic of qubits.
Unlike the binary bits in our everyday computers, which can only be 0 or 1, qubits can exist as 0 and 1 simultaneously—a phenomenon known as superposition.
This quantum property, paired with entanglement, allows for computational power on a scale that’s hard to wrap your head around.
In the UK, places like the National Quantum Computing Centre in Oxfordshire are leading the charge. The government’s investment of over £200 million into quantum research isn’t just about advancing technology. It’s about ensuring the UK remains a global leader in innovation.
Real-world applications: from labs to life
Quantum computing might sound abstract, but its real-world applications are already making an impact. Healthcare is one of the areas seeing the biggest breakthroughs.
I recently spoke with a researcher from GlaxoSmithKline (GSK), and what she shared was astounding. They’re using quantum simulations to accelerate drug discovery.
What used to take years can now be done in weeks. Think about what that means—not just for the pharmaceutical industry, but for people waiting for life-saving treatments.
Finance is another sector benefiting from quantum advancements. Banks like HSBC are using quantum algorithms to optimise portfolios and detect fraudulent transactions faster than ever.
Logistics companies, including DHL, are employing quantum systems to streamline supply chains. The results? Lower costs, faster deliveries, and reduced environmental impact.
Quantum cloud computing: making it accessible
For years, quantum computing seemed out of reach for most organisations—something reserved for elite labs and big tech companies.
That’s starting to change. The rise of quantum cloud computing is bringing this technology to businesses of all sizes.
Take Rigetti Computing, for example.
With its European headquarters in the UK, the company recently launched a quantum cloud service.
This means that even a small biotech startup can access cutting-edge quantum technology to analyse genomic data or optimise production processes.
It’s like renting a piece of the future without having to own an expensive quantum computer.
AI and quantum computing: partners in progress
One of the most fascinating developments is the synergy between quantum computing and artificial intelligence.
AI relies on processing enormous datasets, and quantum computers are uniquely equipped to handle that kind of workload.
The University of Bristol is at the forefront of combining these technologies.
Their research focuses on using quantum-enhanced AI to tackle challenges such as disaster response and energy efficiency.
Picture an AI system capable of predicting weather patterns weeks in advance with near-perfect accuracy.
Or imagine one that can analyse a person’s genetic data to recommend personalised treatments.
This isn’t just theoretical—it’s the kind of progress we’re likely to see within the next decade.
Challenges and ethical considerations
No breakthrough comes without its share of challenges, and quantum computing is no exception.
One of the biggest hurdles is scalability.
These systems are highly sensitive, and even the smallest environmental changes can disrupt their operations.
Stabilising them for widespread use is an ongoing challenge.
Then there’s the question of security. Quantum computers could render today’s encryption methods obsolete, making sensitive data vulnerable.
Organisations like the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre are racing to develop quantum-safe encryption protocols, but it’s a constant race against potential threats.
We also need to think about ethics. How do we ensure quantum technology is used responsibly? Will it widen the gap between the haves and the have-nots? Who gets access to these powerful tools? These are questions that policymakers, businesses, and researchers must address sooner rather than later.
Why it all matters
As I reflect on the rapid rise of quantum computing, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of wonder.
This isn’t just another technological advancement—it’s a shift that could reshape industries, societies, and even our understanding of what’s possible.
For businesses, it’s a golden opportunity to innovate and lead. For researchers, it’s a chance to solve problems we once thought unsolvable.
And for society as a whole, it’s a tool with the potential to tackle some of our most pressing challenges, from climate change to healthcare.
But as we embrace this new frontier, it’s crucial that we do so with responsibility and foresight. Quantum computing isn’t just about speed and power—it’s about how we choose to use it.
So here’s my question to you. Are you ready to be part of this quantum leap?
