The combination of AI and quantum technologies are laying the foundations of a quantum revolution, but still imperceptibly to the general public.  This report aims to prepare us for when this revolution comes.

Quantum technologies are a set of techniques and tools based on the laws of quantum physics and used to address complex problem solving. They fall into three major groups:

1. Quantum Computing, which is used to perform faster and more precise calculations than classical computers.
2. Quantum communication, which allows the secure transmission of information over long distances and, potentially, at higher speeds than classical communications.
3. Quantum measurement (also referred to as quantum sensing), which refers to the use of quantum phenomena to measure and detect very weak signals.

Advanced Artificial Intelligence can process large amounts of data and find patterns that may be difficult for humans to detect and, through machine learning, adapt and learn from new situations. “The rules of the game are about to change,” say our experts, in areas such as:

•   generative artificial intelligence,
•  encryption, with infallible algorithms thanks to quantum computers,
•  or the acceleration of scientific processes thanks to AI.

Quantum technologies are based on the behavior of matter and energy at the quantum level, i.e., at the atomic and subatomic level. Advances in the control and manipulation of individual atoms and photons are one of the most outstanding achievements of quantum physics in recent years.

The basic information element in a quantum system is the qubit, and it can take any value in a continuum of quantum states. Unlike a bit, which can have only two states (zero or one), a qubit can be in a linear combination of both states at the same time (quantum superposition).

This report discusses the development of the four most relevant quantum technologies currently under development:

• Quantum sensing, with sensors capable of complex measurements and state changes,
• Quantum encryption, with more robust algorithms,
• Quantum computing, in full development.
• Quantum communication, using quantum mechanics to transmit information.

What is the state-of-the-art in Artificial Intelligence? What types of AI solutions are we moving towards? How will it combine with quantum technologies?

In this report we delve into:

• What will be the next big developments and impacts of AI in the coming years,
• quantum machine learning and human-machine interaction
• Generative AI

The great business opportunities will arise primarily in two areas:

•  the design and development of the physical components (hardware) needed to create quantum computers and quantum sensor systems.
•  the design and development of quantum algorithms.

These opportunities will be developed primarily in the following industries:

• Finance, in the way of more advanced management systems.
• Chemistry, for the analysis of molecules and the design of new materials.
• Optimization of industries such as logistics, hydrodynamics, etc.
• Artificial Intelligence, for the development of quantum machine learning solutions.
• Cybersecurity, implementing post-quantum cryptography algorithms.

The great challenges of quantum technologies are:

• Scientific challenges, especially in resolving the consistency of results that are compromised by the physical environment.
• Public challenges: governments will have to streamline bureaucratic procedures and inject capital to boost the industry.
• Industry challenges, focused on understanding the basics of the technology and its application potential, as well as training, acquiring and retaining specialist talent capable of developing it.

The main applications of quantum technologies in the real world:

• Photon-based quantum computing, which has its greatest potential in communications, for example.
• Cloud computing as a catalyst for Quantum Computing. It holds great potential for processing power and decision-making efficiency.
• Quantum sensing, is producing significant advances such as quantum radar or significant advances in devices capable of measuring human magnetic fields.

During the Future Trends Forum, experts identified the main sectors where the quantum technologies + AI revolution will have the greatest potential for development and impact. These sectors are:

• Industry
• Telecommunications
• Finance
• Sustainability and climate management
• Pharmaceuticals and biotechnology.

The keys to the success of quantum technologies + AI revolution are:

• ethical aspects, the development of science and technology comes before ethics and governance of its applications. It is important to translate good intentions into effective management strategies for the use of these technologies.
• Education and training in these technologies is crucial for their development. And not only in scientific profiles but also in business profiles that understand their implications.
• a new narrative that clearly informs the complexity of these technologies to fight misinformation and hyperbole, conveying their reality and potential.