Quantum technologies are considered one of the most significant technological breakthroughs of the 21st century, comparable to the advent of computers or the internet. They promise to fundamentally change the way we process data and to solve problems that conventional computing systems cannot tackle. The impact is far-reaching and affects numerous industries.
Quantum technology encompasses a range of technologies based on the principles of quantum mechanics – a theory in physics that describes the behavior of matter and energy on the smallest scale. The most well-known applications include quantum computing, quantum communication, and quantum sensing. Unlike conventional computers, which process information in bits (0 or 1), quantum computers use so-called qubits, which can represent multiple states simultaneously. Many problems in science, engineering, and economics are so complex that they exceed the processing power of classical computers.
Quantum computers make it possible to perform extremely complex calculations in parallel, and thus much faster than classical computers. This potential allows for the simulation of complex systems and could, for example, accelerate the development of new battery technologies. Moreover, quantum computers offer opportunities to increase efficiency in numerous important areas – from optimizing traffic flows and improving production processes to generating more accurate weather forecasts and crop yield predictions in agriculture.
Another field of application is medicine: The pharmaceutical company Boehringer Ingelheim is currently exploring the use of quantum computing to accelerate the drug development process. One goal is to better understand the binding properties of molecules to identify effective compounds more efficiently. Quantum computing could therefore optimize the discovery of new medicines and significantly shorten development times.
In an increasingly digital world, protecting our data is of central importance. Whether it's private messages, financial transactions, or health data – the security of this information must be ensured. Traditional encryption methods, however, are reaching their limits. This is where quantum communication comes in, offering innovative solutions for the future of data security.
Quantum communication uses principles of quantum physics, such as quantum entanglement and superposition, to transmit data securely against eavesdropping. A key application is quantum cryptography, which is based on quantum key distribution. This method enables the creation of encryption keys that cannot be intercepted or copied without detection. Any eavesdropping attempt alters the state of the transmitted qubits and is immediately recognized.
Startups such as Quantum Optics Jena are already working on developing such technologies. The company recently raised €8.5 million in a Series A funding round. The investment was led by deep-tech investor Quantonation, the High-Tech Gründerfonds, and the TGFS Technologiegründerfonds Sachsen.
According to the Quantum Technology Monitor 2024 by McKinsey, approximately $43 billion in public funding has now been invested worldwide in the quantum technology sector, with the majority of this investment going to China. To strengthen Europe's position in quantum research and to build a competitive quantum technology industry, the European Union launched the Quantum Flagship program. With a budget of at least €1 billion, the program spans a ten-year period and includes a variety of research and innovation projects.
The German federal government is pursuing its Quantum Technologies Action Plan with the goal of becoming one of the leading nations in the field of quantum technologies by 2026. Its objectives include the development of a 100-qubit quantum computer, the creation of new products in quantum sensing, and progress in quantum communication. Additionally, a quality infrastructure for quantum technologies is to be established to position “made in Germany” as a hallmark of excellence in this groundbreaking field.
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