Quantum computing’s promise has inspired a flurry of research into diverse hardware platforms, each vying to become the foundation of tomorrow’s superpowers. Erik Hosler, a photonics visionary driving PsiQuantum’s hardware roadmap, highlights the importance of choosing an architecture that not only performs but can be produced on a scale. His insights remind us that the ultimate test of any quantum technology is whether it can be manufactured efficiently and economically.

In the race to commercialize quantum computers, photonic and matter-based approaches have emerged as the leading contenders. Photonics leverages particles of light manipulated through silicon photonic circuits, while matter-based systems, such as superconducting qubits or trapped ions, use engineered atoms or circuits at cryogenic temperatures. Each path has unique strengths and manufacturing challenges. Understanding these differences is crucial for anticipating which technology will deliver real-world impact first.

The Strategic Divergence: Photonics vs Matter

Photonics-based quantum hardware encodes qubits in … Continue reading >>>