What is a quantum computer good for? Absolutely nothing — yet
The article argues that quantum computers have yet to perform a single conclusively useful task, despite being too small and error-ridden for commercial problems. Donald Trump's science adviser has promised a quantum computer capable of scientific discovery by 2028, backed by a new executive order to compete with China. Microsoft recently announced a new chip called Majorana 2, claiming it accelerates the timeline to a practical quantum computer by 2029. Independent experts, including physicist Henry Legg, have criticized the announcement as hype, publishing a paper in Nature highlighting discrepancies between Microsoft's claims and reality. The article describes a cycle of hyped corporate announcements followed by academic smackdowns, set against a backdrop of billions in investment and Cold War-style competition. While genuine progress has been made, it remains largely incremental and too esoteric for the public to immediately grasp. The fundamental promise of quantum computing is its ability to simulate probabilistic processes like molecules and photosynthesis better than classical computers.
