The UK government has pledged a £1bn investment to buy large-scale quantum computers from British startups and companies, as it looks to stay in the race in innovating in the technology which some believe could rival AI.
Technology secretary Liz Kendall said: ”I am determined this country grasps the benefits quantum computing will bring. It is only by keeping pace with technological progress that we can deliver the high-paid jobs, cutting-edge public services, and innovations which change lives.
"Today’s announcements are an investment in our future - unlocking better health, wealth, and more opportunities for communities across the country. This government is ushering in a quantum leap - making the choice today to back UK scientists, companies, and innovators so we can deliver a future that works for all.”
The commitment from the government to buy the next generation of quantum computers is seen as a way to ensure startups and companies stay in the UK, according to reports. In total, the government announced £2bn in quantum computing investment, but £1bn has previously been announced.
The new £1bn is a commitment from the government to buy a new generation of quantum computers for use by scientists, the public sector and businesses, while another £1bn, previously announced, will help firms and researchers in deploying quantum tech in areas like finance and energy over the next four years.
Some experts see quantum computing as the next big breakthrough in tech, rivalling AI and being crucial to UK economic growth. The government said the UK will become the first country to benefit from "revolutionary" quantum computers, sensors and networks, and support the emergence of the next generation of leading British companies who will help shape the curve of progress.
It said its quantum plans will help deliver personalised treatments, potential cures for diseases, safeguard our national security and deliver high-paid jobs. Commenting on the investment, the boss of one of the UK's leading quantum firms said it said it was "critical" for the UK to maintain its leadership.
Ashley Montanaro, CEO and co-founder of Phasecraft, said:
The investments announced today are critical to Britain's continued leadership in the quantum race. The scope of today's announcement shows the level of ambition and conviction required for the UK to maintain our advantage. It's essential that the procurement programme includes a significant quantum software element - the full potential of quantum computing can only be unlocked when quantum algorithms development is prioritised alongside hardware development. Thanks to the UK's rich academic heritage, and world class R&D ecosystem, Britain is primed to lead the world in quantum algorithms and software. That's why we're particularly proud to be growing our global quantum algorithms company from our British headquarters.
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