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Quantum computing is one of the great technological frontiers set to transform everything, including cyber security and health care. Several countries are joining the global race to be the quantum computing leader, competing to fund research and development massively. Who are the quantum computing leaders, and how are they influencing this fast-moving area? Let's observe them.
History has shown that the United States has been a leader in scientific inventions and innovations, and quantum computing is no different. Working with private tech behemoths like IBM, Google, and Intel, the US government has been investing in quantum development programs. Another coverage is the 2018-established US National Quantum Initiative Act, which seeks to boost quantum research substantially.
In 2019, Google took a major step and claimed that it had achieved quantum supremacy, defined as the point at which a quantum device achieves a goal that a classical computer could not achieve in a reasonable amount of time. This set the stage for other nations to start making their moves in the global quantum race.
Over the last few years, China has drastically increased its focus, funding, and research and development on the quantum ecosystem. The nation is investing massively in quantum specifics like quantum hardware and other quantum communication systems. China has already demonstrated its capability in long-range secure communications by launching the world's only quantum communication satellite.
According to the Chinese government's plans, quantum technology will be one of the future cornerstones of China's economy. The aim is to have cutting-edge quantum-cutting solutions for real problems. Looking at its ambitions, given its heavy funding, it won't be an exaggeration to state that China is among the top quantum computing countries.
The European Union (EU) has also been doing great work on quantum computing. The EU has become a strong contender with several leading institutes and joint work amongst its member states. A principal one is the Quantum Flagship, a multi-billion euro central project aiming to foster quantum technologies in Europe.
The EU's approach allows universities, new ventures, and established companies to collaborate. Germany, France, and the Netherlands are quite active, with companies like IQM and Airbus Quantum Technologies spearheading the effort. Collectively, they seek to position Europe as a leader in quantum computing.
Canada has contributed significantly to developing various quantum computing ideas and theories, with companies like D-Wave Systems and Xanadu leading the charge in quantum hardware development. Universities within the country, especially the University of Waterloo, are also at the forefront of quantum development and research. The large funding stream and the country's active startup culture have made Canada one of the prominent stakeholders in the quantum space.
As quantum computing advancements become more widespread throughout businesses, these quantum computing leaders are leading the way forward. Quantum hardware, software, and communication technology are core areas of investment, and the US, China, the European Union, and Canada are leading the pack. There is much more to be explored, but one thing seems certain: this is where the future of quantum computing is headed.
