Quantum Computing and Communications: Status and Prospects

What GAO Uncovered
Quantum information and facts systems aim to use the houses of character at atomic scales to attain tasks that are not achievable with present technologies. These technologies count on qubits, the quantum equivalent of classical computer bits. Researchers are producing qubits from particles, these types of as atoms or particles of gentle, or objects that mimic them, these types of as superconducting circuits. Compared with classical bits, qubits can be intrinsically connected to each other and can be any mixture of and 1 simultaneously. These capabilities empower two perhaps transformational applications—quantum computing and communications. Nevertheless, quantum data can not be copied, is fragile, and can be irreversibly missing, ensuing in errors that are challenging to suitable.
Illustrations of quantum computing components
Some quantum computing and communications technologies are accessible for restricted makes use of, but will probable need substantial development in advance of giving substantial industrial value. For example, some small error-prone quantum desktops are available for minimal applications, and a quantum communications technology identified as quantum crucial distribution can be ordered. In accordance to company officers and stakeholders, further quantum technological know-how advancement may possibly acquire at the very least a decade and price billions, but these kinds of estimates are remarkably unsure. Quantum computing and communications systems will probable establish together simply because of some shared physics ideas, laboratory techniques, and prevalent hardware.
Quantum computers may possibly have purposes in numerous sectors, but it is not apparent wherever they will have the biggest effects. Quantum communications systems could have makes use of for protected communications, quantum networking, and a foreseeable future quantum web. Some applications—such as distributed quantum computing, which connects numerous quantum personal computers jointly to clear up a problem—require both equally quantum computing and communications systems. Potential disadvantages of quantum engineering include things like price, complexity, vitality use, and the risk of destructive use.
GAO determined four variables that have an affect on quantum technology improvement and use: (1) collaboration, (2) workforce dimension and talent, (3) investment, and (4) the supply chain. The desk underneath describes selections that policymakers—legislative bodies, authorities businesses, criteria-location organizations, sector, and other groups—could consider to help tackle these elements, improve added benefits, or mitigate drawbacks of quantum engineering growth and use.
Plan Alternatives to Enable Address Elements that Impact Quantum Engineering Growth and Use, or to Enhance Benefits or Mitigate Negatives
Coverage choices and potential implementation approaches |
Opportunities | Things to consider |
Collaboration (report p. 37) Policymakers could inspire even more collaboration in creating quantum systems, this sort of as collaboration amid:
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Workforce (report p. 39) Policymakers could look at strategies to develop the quantum engineering workforce by, for case in point:
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Investment decision (report p. 41) Policymakers could look at approaches to incentivize or help expenditure in quantum engineering enhancement, these as:
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Source Chain (report p. 43) Policymakers could persuade the growth of a robust, safe source chain for quantum technologies by, for example:
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Supply: GAO. | GAO-21-104422
Why GAO Did This Analyze
Quantum details technologies could dramatically raise abilities beyond what is doable with classical technologies. Future quantum computers could have large-worth programs in protection, cryptography, drug progress, and vitality. Upcoming quantum communications could permit for safe communications by generating details hard to intercept without having the eavesdropper staying detected.
GAO conducted a engineering evaluation on (1) the availability of quantum computing and communications systems and how they work, (2) potential long term applications of these kinds of technologies and gains and negatives from their progress and use, and (3) things that could influence technological innovation improvement and coverage solutions readily available to support tackle people elements, greatly enhance positive aspects, or mitigate negatives.
To address these targets, GAO reviewed key reviews and scientific literature interviewed govt, field, tutorial associates, and probable conclude consumers and convened a assembly of industry experts in collaboration with the Countrywide Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. GAO is pinpointing coverage choices in this report.
For more data, get in touch with Karen L. Howard at (202) 512-6888 or [email protected].