The Role of Quantum Computing in the Technological Revolution

We are living in an era defined by unprecedented technological advancements. Artificial Intelligence, the Internet of Things (IoT), blockchain, and gaining momentum quantum computing are redefining the rules of the game. In this context, quantum computing does not merely represent an evolution of classical computing, but a complete revolution in the way we process information.

This article provides a technological analysis of the role quantum computing plays within today’s technological revolution, highlighting its functioning, applications, and transformative potential in emerging technologies.

Unlike classical computing, which uses binary bits (0 and 1), quantum computing is based on qubits, units of information that can simultaneously represent both 0 and 1 thanks to principles of quantum mechanics such as superposition and quantum entanglement. This enables massive parallel data processing, which is unfeasible with traditional systems.

Quantum computing, as a field of study, seeks to exploit these properties to solve problems that are currently intractable, such as factoring large prime numbers, simulating complex molecules, or optimizing large-scale logistical systems.

The rise of emerging technologies is intrinsically linked to data processing and analysis capabilities. In this context, quantum computing acts as a catalyst for innovations such as:

• Quantum Artificial Intelligence: faster and more accurate learning algorithms capable of processing massive volumes of data in real time.
• Quantum Simulation: modeling complex chemical or biological systems to accelerate discoveries in pharmacology and materials science.
• Quantum Cryptography: virtually unbreakable communication systems using protocols like BB84 and quantum key distribution.
• Quantum Finance: portfolio optimization, risk prediction, and market analysis on previously unimaginable time scales.

In each of these fields, quantum computing is moving beyond a theoretical promise to become a tangible tool.

Over the past 12 months, leading companies have achieved crucial milestones:

• IBM announced its Condor processor, with 1,121 superconducting qubits—the largest of its kind to date. In parallel, they launched Heron, a 133-qubit chip with significantly reduced error rates. IBM has outlined a roadmap projecting the achievement of useful quantum computers by 2033, promoting a quantum-centric supercomputing approach.
• Google Quantum AI made a historic breakthrough in quantum error correction, demonstrating that their logical qubits can scale while exponentially reducing errors. Additionally, their latest processor executed random simulations in minutes that would take classical supercomputers billions of years.
• Microsoft surprised the industry by presenting Majorana 1, a processor based on topological qubits, which are considered more stable and resistant to noise. This development was accompanied by results published in Nature, validating the existence of hardware-protected qubits.
• D-Wave demonstrated a potential quantum advantage, solving complex magnetic problems that are not feasible with classical supercomputing. Companies like IonQ have also advanced, achieving fidelities above 99.999% using trapped ions.

These initiatives consolidate a consensus in the industry: we are making tangible progress toward quantum utility, a concept that marks the point at which a quantum computer can outperform a classical one in practical tasks.

The current technological revolution is driven by the convergence of multiple disciplines: AI, cloud computing, robotics, and more. Quantum computing is positioned as the underlying layer that could exponentially enhance these technologies. Its impact can be summarized as follows:

1. Acceleration of scientific development: chemical and materials simulations with previously unimaginable fidelity.
2. Optimization of complex industrial processes: from logistics routes to financial systems.
3. Transformation of global cybersecurity: driving both new threats (such as breaking RSA encryption using algorithms like Shor) and new defenses (post-quantum cryptography and QKD).
4. New paradigm in technological education and talent development: creating an urgent need to train quantum engineers, developers, and data scientists with a quantum-focused approach.

As the World Economic Forum notes, “quantum technologies have the potential to transform entire industries and solve global challenges that once seemed insurmountable.”

Colombia has begun to integrate quantum computing into its academic and scientific ecosystem:

• Universidad de los Andes unveiled the country’s first quantum computer in 2024, which is based on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). This equipment allows for the performance of over 300 fundamental experiments and positions Colombia on the map of quantum education in Latin America.
• Universidad Nacional de Colombia leads the “Center of Excellence in Quantum Computing and Artificial Intelligence,” an initiative that strengthens training and advanced research in disruptive technologies.
• Universidad del Rosario and EAFIT promote research groups, courses, and workshops on quantum informatics, utilizing platforms like IBM Q Experience and Qiskit.
• Fundación Universitaria de Popayán participates in the Ibero-American Network for the Advancement of Quantum Software, promoting international scientific collaboration.
• National researchers published the document “Quantum Ecosystem Research and Analysis in Colombia” on arXiv (Cornell University’s repository), proposing quantum computing as a strategic axis for national development.

In Colombia’s emerging quantum computing ecosystem, Cuantico is positioned as a key player thanks to its CuantaIA platform. This pioneering initiative combines the power of artificial intelligence with the principles of quantum computing to transform public management, research, and strategic decision-making.

CuantaIA not only drives the use of quantum algorithms in traditional sectors but also fosters the training of specialized talent through predictive models, quantum simulations, and complex data analysis. Its ethical and decentralized approach aligns with the guidelines of CONPES 4144 and the country’s digital transformation policies.

Thanks to its articulated work with universities, research centers, and government entities, Cuantico demonstrates that quantum computing in Colombia is not a concept of the future but a present-day tool for building smarter and more efficient public solutions.

These actions reflect a clear intention to build a national quantum ecosystem articulated among academia, industry, and government, fostering local talent and technological sovereignty.

Despite its potential, quantum computing also presents enormous challenges. Quantum error correction remains a formidable obstacle to achieving fault-tolerant devices. In addition, the overhead in the number of physical qubits per logical qubit is significant.

Organizations such as IEEE and MIT warn about the risks of technological “hype.” While the promises are real, the path toward truly useful quantum computers still requires overcoming multiple technical and theoretical barriers.

On the ethical front, using quantum computers to break current encryption raises questions about privacy, technological sovereignty, and global governance. Entities such as the World Economic Forum are already proposing principles for quantum ethics and responsible development.