Are We Entering the Quantum Decade?

In 2025, quantum computing has risen to prominence, particularly due to the surge in discussions surrounding post-quantum cryptography. However, its application has expanded into various sectors, showcasing a range of emerging business use cases.

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With nations pouring millions into quantum initiatives, the increase in open-source quantum projects and the strategic road maps from industry leaders confirm that we are in a distinctive “quantum decade.”

The framework of quantum computing is taking shape through collaborative ecosystems involving quantum architects, manufacturers, software firms, startups, academia, and governmental bodies.

Leading tech companies like Google and IBM are developing a plethora of tools, frameworks, and platforms for developers, complemented by open-source development kits such as TKET and Qiskit. Third-party resources like QuTiP further expedite advancements. Furthermore, repositories like GitHub and QOSF are centralizing numerous open-source quantum initiatives.

Quantum systems are increasingly decentralized on cloud platforms, paving the way for accelerated development. Major providers like IBM, Google, Microsoft, and Amazon are revealing future technology roadmaps. Notably, Microsoft introduced the Majorana 1 and Amazon unveiled the Ocelot as part of groundbreaking developments in quantum chips this year.

During the recent Quantum Developer Conference 2025, IBM introduced the Quantum Nighthawk chip, architected to work synergistically with high-performance quantum software. The company anticipates that succeeding versions will achieve up to 7,500 gates by the end of 2026, advancing to 10,000 in 2027. This leap may mark the onset of what IBM terms “quantum advantage,” where quantum computers will outperform classical computers in problem-solving capabilities.

Researchers at IBM project that the adoption of quantum computing will hinge on a trifecta of technologies comprising classical bits, quantum qubits, and AI neurons. “Significant advancements in quantum computing will emerge through the harmonious integration of quantum software, hardware, fabrication, and error correction,” noted Jay Gambetta, director of IBM Research.

Is Quantum Computing Economically Viable for Businesses?

The financial implications of owning, operating, and maintaining a quantum computer involve significant investment, making such ownership impractical for even major corporations. Accessible quantum technology might rest upon collaborative ecosystems involving government funding and international alliances.

Historically, new computing technologies functioned through leased services, utilizing pre-booked governmental compute resources and employing batch processing techniques like time slicing. Similar models are anticipated to surface in the realm of quantum processing, reiterating patterns seen with the early mainframes of the post-war era, including the pioneering UNIVAC.

Global Interest in Quantum Computing

At least 15 nations, including the United States, China, and several EU member states, are investing heavily in quantum computing initiatives. The emergence of national strategies indicates a concerted effort to assert leadership in this advanced computing domain.

India’s National Quantum Mission, approved in April 2023, represents a substantial initiative aimed at enhancing quantum research and development with a financial commitment of around INR 6,000 crore—approximately $678 million. This initiative aims to establish India as a leader in quantum technologies, focusing on various aspects including computation, communication, and materials science.

An early showcase of the mission will be the Quantum Valley Tech Park, a collaborative project involving IBM, TCS, and IIT Madras, with the state government of Andhra Pradesh. This venture aims to integrate expertise from quantum computing and artificial intelligence, driving innovation in the region.

In June 2025, the Netherlands and India announced a joint press release, highlighting their intention to collaborate on quantum science and technology, recognizing the Netherlands’ leading position in quantum startups and patent filings.

Reena Dayal, founder and CEO of the Quantum Ecosystems Technology Council of India, noted that collaborative discussions between Dutch companies and Indian startups are already taking place, bolstering the push for innovation in this field.

The Future Landscape of Enterprise Computing

Organizations currently employ classical computing for diverse analytics, decision-making, and operational enhancement. While traditional computing relies on binary bits, quantum computing leverages the property of superposition with qubits, exponentially expanding the scope of solvable problems.

For instance, a quantum computer with 100 qubits could theoretically require more classical bits than the total number of atoms on Earth to simulate. Researchers envision a computing revolution that integrates quantum and classical systems, disrupting standard business models and reshaping various industries. Experts from IBM assert that this transition represents a significant computing revolution not seen in decades, ultimately transforming enterprise operations.

Though experts suggest the integration of quantum technology may initially present challenges, organizations are poised to leverage its capabilities to tackle complex issues and drive forward-thinking solutions.

Prepping for the Quantum Shift

As quantum computing’s prominence grows, organizations and IT teams must start preparing today. This preparation involves developing infrastructure and algorithms tailored for business-oriented applications of quantum technology.

Lawrence Gasman, president of Communications Industry Researchers, emphasized the importance of understanding quantum computing for future CIOs. As quantum networks and cybersecurity solutions become integral to secure communications by 2030, the interplay between classical and quantum architectures will increasingly captivate data center providers.

Convergence between established data center technologies and emerging quantum centers is anticipated, particularly concerning interconnects, which will likely use photonic methods in quantum environments.

AI’s role is expected to bolster the adoption of quantum technology as IBM researchers indicate that the convergence of classical bits, qubits, and AI neurons will shape the future of computing. The collaborative synergy among these elements—not quantum alone—will drive advancements in the computing sector, as highlighted in IBM’s Quantum Decade report.

Applications in Business

Gasman highlighted that drug manufacturers could leverage quantum computing to expedite drug development, significantly reducing costs through improved trial efficiency.

He also noted potential applications in specialized fields, including materials science, which could revolutionize sectors like automotive and aerospace through advanced coatings. In general enterprise applications, quantum data centers possess the capacity to address intricate problems related to decision-making and strategic planning across extensive timelines.

For complex modeling involving geopolitical, technological, or energy factor analyses spanning decades, quantum computing will become increasingly relevant. The IBM Quantum Decade report outlines extensive industry potential in numerous areas, such as fraud detection in finance, materials discovery, and more efficient design practices in manufacturing.

The applications extend into chemical engineering, public health, and environmental responses to pressing challenges, along with benefits in genomic research, drug design, and optimizations in logistics operations as quantum capabilities integrate with classical systems.