on Australian co-founded, California-based quantum computing firm PsiQuantum at least makes more sense than throwing a billion dollars into solar panels, a technology so completely commoditised that people in Europe install the panels as garden fencing because they’re so cheap.
A prototype of PsiQuantum’s cabinet. Many of these cabinets will eventually be linked together to create a commercially useful quantum computer. PsiQuantum is one of the most heavily backed standalone quantum companies and has Microsoft as an investor, so the two governments are in good company. Australian Chief Scientist Cathy Foley, who was part of the cabinet-level process and expressions of interest, said PsiQuantum was a “country mile” ahead of other Australian-linked companies,
Along with AI it could also help mitigate climate change, create personalised drugs for serious illness, boost crop yields, or plan logistics. It’s a front line in the technology war between the US and China along with microchips and green tech – and some US experts think quantum might decide the entire technology contest between them.