This episode of Techsplainers explores the revolutionary applications of quantum computing across diverse industries and disciplines. We dive into how quantum computers could transform pharmaceutical development by simulating molecular interactions digitally, potentially reducing drug discovery timelines from 15 years to just months. The discussion extends to quantum computing's applications in materials science, climate change mitigation, artificial intelligence, and financial modeling. We'll look at the critical distinction between "quantum utility" (already achieved) and "quantum advantage" (expected by 2026), while addressing the significant challenges facing the field, including qubit scaling and quantum error correction. The episode highlights how industries from healthcare to logistics to energy management are already investing in quantum research, with companies like Moderna, HSBC, and FedEx exploring quantum solutions for complex optimization problems. Listeners gain insight into IBM's quantum roadmap, which aims for 2,000 logical qubits by 2033, and learn how quantum-centric supercomputing—the strategic combination of quantum and classical systems—represents the most promising path forward. Rather than merely offering incremental improvements, quantum computing promises to solve problems that are currently impossible, potentially revolutionizing our approach to some of humanity's most complex challenges.

Find more information at https://www.ibm.com/think/podcasts/techsplainers.

Narrated by Ian Smalley