UN Year of Quantum Spurs Global Tech Giants Into Action
The United Nations has designated 2025 as the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, as technology companies worldwide continue to accelerate quantum development programmes and announce investment strategies worth billions of dollars.
Quantum computing uses quantum bits, or qubits, instead of the classical bits used in traditional computers. While a classical bit can be either 0 or 1, a qubit can exist in a superposition of both states simultaneously. This allows quantum computers to perform certain calculations exponentially faster than classical computers.
The UN’s initiative marks 100 years since the establishment of quantum mechanics and aims to increase global awareness of quantum applications across industries.
“This milestone date marks the impact quantum mechanics has had over the past century and recognises its significance in setting the stage for the new wave of quantum innovation,” says Gabriela Styf Sjöman, Managing Director of Research and Network Strategy at BT.
“We find ourselves in an exciting and pivotal time. We are at the advent of the reliable quantum computing era,” says Mitra Azizirad, President and Chief Operating Officer of Strategic Missions and Technologies at Microsoft, in a recent blog.
Microsoft will partner with the American Physical Society for the International Year of Quantum initiative, focusing on expanding quantum computing awareness and applications.
“We are so excited to partner with APS and other leading institutions to support the IYQ as it engages with communities from across the world to scale awareness of how quantum science and applications will transform industries,” says Mitra.
The company continues to make progress in quantum computing development, following its creation of 24 logical qubits in partnership with Atom Computing in late 2024.
Global quantum infrastructure expands
Technology companies are launching quantum infrastructure projects to coincide with the International Year of Quantum. BT has introduced what it describes as the world's first commercial quantum secure communications metro network in London.
“Quantum technologies will be a critical enabler of prosperous economies and societal growth. As such, Nation states are racing to develop and commercialise the opportunities that quantum technologies will bring,” says Gabriela.
The telecommunications company has invested in quantum research for more than a decade, focusing on secure communications, sensing, timing and computing applications. The company aims to establish international standards for quantum technology implementation.
“We’re looking at how to build a network for quantum technologies, how to optimise quantum technologies in our network and we're supporting the development of standards and assurance to that the technology is trusted by our customers,” says Gabriela.
Companies address quantum preparation challenges
Research indicates enterprises face quantum preparation challenges during the UN's quantum year, with 12% of organisations reporting readiness to assess quantum opportunities, according to Microsoft's business decision-maker study.
“Leaders in global companies, investment funds, and governments across the world are making multi-billion-dollar investments in quantum computing,” says Mitra. “Those organisations that are in the throes of planning a comprehensive quantum-ready strategy are creating durable, competitive differentiation for their organisations.”
Microsoft has introduced its Quantum Ready programme to support business leaders in developing quantum computing strategies. The initiative focuses on hybrid applications, workforce development and quantum security measures.
The programme emerges as organisations increase quantum computing investments globally. Microsoft reports 76% of leaders indicate quantum skills shortages impact innovation progress.
Quantum security takes centre stage
Microsoft emphasises quantum security preparation as central to the International Year of Quantum. The company notes that while immediate threats remain limited, organisations require time to transition to new cryptographic standards.
“Security is a top priority at Microsoft – this is why we established the Microsoft Quantum Safe Program to enable security alignment from both business and technical perspectives,” says Mitra.
Through its Quantum Ready programme, Microsoft plans to provide business leaders with workshops and industry-specific forums to identify quantum computing applications. The company aims to share findings through industry outlook reports.
The growing focus on quantum computing creates requirements for workforce development. Microsoft's programme includes training resources to address skills gaps in quantum technology.
“Cultivating a culture of innovation begins with robust workforce skilling and training, empowering teams with the knowledge and mindset to embrace quantum-enabled possibilities,” says Mitra.
“Quantum technologies will be a critical enabler of prosperous economies and societal growth. What's critical now is that we align cutting-edge quantum research with robust commercial strategies and collaborative frameworks to unleash the value that a quantum enabled economy will bring,” says Gabriela.
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