Added: Oct 13, 2023
In this podcast episode, Peter Diamandis interviews Jack Hidary about the potential of quantum technologies and their impact on various fields. Hidary begins by explaining that quantum information science is the underlying principle behind quantum computers, quantum sensors, quantum security, and other quantum technologies. He emphasizes that our world operates at a quantum level, and we now have the ability to manipulate and harness the atomic and quantum world.Hidary discusses the difference between quantum computers and quantum technologies. While quantum computers are still in the early stages of development and require error correction and fault tolerance, there are already many quantum technologies that are available and do not require these complex systems. He mentions quantum sensing as one such technology that is currently being used. Quantum sensors, such as quantum diamonds, can detect magnetic fields and have various applications, including medical imaging and diagnostics.
One of the applications of quantum sensing that Hidary highlights is magnetocardiography, which can provide more accurate and direct measurements of the heart's magnetic field. This technology can be used for better diagnostic tools and early detection of heart conditions. Hidary also mentions the potential of using quantum sensors for navigation, especially in situations where GPS signals may be jammed or unavailable. By leveraging the Earth's magnetic field, quantum sensors can provide absolute navigation, even underwater.
Hidary emphasizes the importance of the convergence of artificial intelligence and quantum technologies. He explains how machine learning algorithms can be used to process the data collected by quantum sensors and extract meaningful information. For example, machine learning algorithms can filter out noise and identify the unique fingerprint of the Earth's magnetic field in order to enable accurate navigation.
Throughout the conversation, Hidary emphasizes the need for diverse opinions and ideas in the development of quantum technologies. He mentions the history of AI and the AI winter, where a lack of diversity in ideas led to a stagnation in the field. Hidary believes that by encouraging a diverse ecosystem of quantum companies and researchers, we can avoid similar pitfalls and drive innovation in quantum technologies.
Hidary also discusses the potential impact of quantum technologies on various fields, such as drug discovery, battery chemistry, and material science. He envisions a future where quantum simulation can be used to create digital twins of molecules and accelerate the development of new drugs. He also mentions the potential of quantum technologies in climate science and understanding the impact of human activities on the planet.
He mentions that the power source for these devices can be as simple as a few D batteries or AAA batteries. Hidary also mentions that lasers are not necessary for these devices and that LEDs can be used instead, making them more affordable.
Hidary then shifts the conversation to quantum security and cybersecurity. He explains that quantum computers have the potential to break current encryption methods, which poses a threat to data security. However, he reassures that there are solutions being developed to address this issue. He mentions that a global effort is underway to create quantum-safe cryptography, which is resistant to attacks from quantum computers. Hidary highlights the importance of upgrading current encryption protocols to ensure data security in the future.
The discussion then moves to the field of medicine and the potential for quantum technology to revolutionize healthcare. Hidary explains that quantum technology can be used to simulate molecular interactions and aid in drug discovery. He mentions the use of AI and quantum computing to analyze large datasets and identify potential drug candidates. Hidary believes that this approach can significantly reduce the time and cost involved in bringing new drugs to market.
Hidary acknowledges the complexity of the human body and the need for a deeper understanding of cellular pathways and molecular interactions. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and partnerships in advancing research in this field. Hidary also mentions the potential for quantum technology to improve our understanding of the brain and neuroscience.
In response to a question about the software side of quantum technology, Hidary explains the need to reimagine software models based on quantum information theory. He mentions the importance of developing smart code that can run on different types of processors, including quantum processors. Hidary believes that the combination of AI and quantum technology can lead to significant breakthroughs in various fields.
The conversation continues with a discussion on the environmental impact of quantum technology. Hidary acknowledges the need for more metals and resources to build quantum devices and other technologies. He highlights the importance of sustainable practices and responsible resource management to mitigate the environmental impact.
Hidary continues by explaining the basics of quantum computing. He describes how traditional computers use bits to store and process information, while quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This allows quantum computers to perform complex calculations much faster than classical computers.
Hidary then discusses the potential impact of quantum computing on various industries. He explains that quantum computers can solve optimization problems more efficiently, which has implications for fields such as logistics, finance, and drug discovery. Quantum computers can also simulate complex systems, such as weather patterns or chemical reactions, allowing scientists to gain a deeper understanding of these phenomena.
The conversation then turns to the topic of quantum sensors. Hidary explains that quantum sensors can detect and measure extremely small changes in the environment, such as magnetic fields or gravitational forces. These sensors have applications in fields such as healthcare, mining, and geophysics. For example, quantum sensors can be used to detect mineral deposits underground or to monitor the health of the heart.
Hidary also discusses the potential of quantum computing in the field of medicine. He explains that quantum computers can be used to model complex biological systems, such as the human brain or the behavior of cancer cells. This could lead to breakthroughs in areas such as neurodegenerative diseases and cancer treatment.
The conversation then shifts to the topic of the digital divide and the importance of democratizing access to quantum computing. Hidary emphasizes the need to ensure that quantum technology is not limited to a few countries or corporations. He believes that education and collaboration are key to closing the quantum divide and ensuring that everyone has access to these powerful tools.
Hidary also touches on the topic of climate change and the potential of quantum computing to address this global challenge. He explains that quantum computers can be used to model and optimize complex systems, such as battery chemistry or the behavior of the Earth's climate. This could lead to more efficient and sustainable solutions for mitigating climate change.
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