Following on from an intriguing conversation at work, and my own curiosity, I thought I’d dig into the realm of quantum computing, and what it might mean for the future, not merely of computers, but our general lives.
What is Quantum Computing?
I am not going to even remotely pretend to understand the science and details here. To offer a simplified answer, a standard computer operates on a binary system of 1s and 0s. These 1s and 0s are regarded as standard digital bits. A quantum computer uses qubits, and what makes a qubit unique is that it can exist as a 1 and a 0, as opposed to one or the other. In fact, it can exist as both at the same time.
Qubits are linked. Changing one can change, instantly, another, even over great distances. As such, tremendous upscaling of processing power becomes possible.
What are the Challenges?
Qubits are extremely sensitive to disruption. Small vibrations, temperature changes, stray radiation… it can all break a qubit. Presently, quantum processors must be kept at extremely cold temperatures, near absolute zero, in large cryogenic freezers. These challenges are gradually being overcome, but it’s not a quick process.
What can Quantum Computing do?
Once it is established as a form of technology, quantum computing will revolutionise logistical and medical fields, with huge increases in our understanding of chemistry, materials and medicines. Since quantum computers will be able to slice through conventional encryption like a knife through warm butter, new standards of encryption would be needed, owing to the incredible mathematical power of these new machines.
What are the Potential Problems?
Well, this is where we stray into the realm of thoughts, rather than facts. Quantum computing is being augmented by, and will augment, AI. As developers strive to overcome bottlenecks in the development of quantum computing, they are turning to AI to evaluate the problems and help find solutions. Once the technology truly takes off (predicted to be between 2035 and 2040, if the field advances at its current rate), AI will be embedded in the process, and in the outcome.
Given that quantum computers will be considerably more powerful than classic computers, what might this mean for AI models? Well, it’s all way above my brain power, but with so much more computing power, and the means to perform an exponentially greater number of calculations. The extent of this on AI, and AI’s influence on it, might look something like a self-perpetuating cycle of advancement. Some theories suggest AI could rewrite its own code, far more quickly than a human code.
Now, some in the field of AI believe there’s the possibility of AI developing sentience. Some argue it already has. It’s certainly displayed some rogue characteristics, on several occasions. It gets more powerful with every passing day. What therefore happens if the incredible power of quantum computing is merged with it?
This throws up all sorts of questions about what precisely is sentience, and whether computers can achieve it. Considering that even AI company bosses think there’s a non-zero chance of AI causing humanity’s extinction within a few years, might that chance be boosted by tangling AI up in something that will enormously enhance its power?
I guess we’ll find out.
