From bits to qubits: The next computing stack

Quantum Computing’s Tsunami: Reliable Qubits and Scalable Solutions Emerge at Web Summit Vancouver 2026

At Web Summit Vancouver 2026, Dr. Stephanie Simmons, Founder and Chief Quantum Officer of Photonic, introduced her company’s disruptive approach to distributed quantum computing, focusing on multi-core processing for limitless scale. Mr. David Carmona, VP of Discovery and Quantum at Microsoft, detailed Microsoft’s platform strategy, collaborating with various hardware providers, including Photonic, and developing their own topological methods to build a comprehensive, open-layered quantum stack.

Moderator Ms. Amy Nordrum highlighted a critical shift from “noisy quantum” to “logical quantum computing” in the last one to two years. Dr. Simmons explained this breakthrough in reliable quantum computing now offers a clear path to commercial applications and tangible ROI. Mr. Carmona emphasized that reliable quantum is a foundational milestone for scalable quantum, shifting focus from physical to logical qubits, essential for valuable systems.

A major challenge, error correction, has seen remarkable progress. Mr. Carmona noted the field is now “below the threshold,” allowing for improved reliability with more qubits. Dr. Simmons explained Photonic’s contribution through QLDPC codes, which drastically reduced the physical qubit requirement from thousands to just 100-200. This innovation accelerated the timeline for practical quantum computers to a near-term horizon of 2 to 4 years, likened to the “pre-ChatGPT moment for quantum.”

Regarding quantum-proof encryption, Mr. Carmona confirmed it is no longer a technological problem, with NIST releasing quantum-proof algorithms in 2024. The current challenge is organizational and implementational, requiring companies to inventory all systems and devices. Proactive preparation is crucial, as data captured today could be vulnerable to future quantum decryption, necessitating immediate strategic planning.

Looking ahead, Dr. Simmons outlined milestones: 100-200 logical qubits will unlock understanding of complex chemical processes, impacting energy and manufacturing. More qubits will address cybersecurity, and thousands will enable financial optimization. Mr. Carmona added that quantum computing will complement, not replace, classical systems, particularly in scientific discovery. Microsoft’s Discovery platform exemplifies this, combining generative AI with HPC and quantum for “lab-accurate simulations” at silicon speed.

Quantum computing is already a national technological priority for several countries, recognized for its transformative economic potential. Dr. Simmons announced Photonic’s recent $200 million US funding round, affirming quantum’s status as the “ultimate level of compute” and a pivotal part of human history, akin to the commercialization of semiconductors. Mr. Carmona described quantum as a “machine of industrial revolution,” poised to reshape society and industry. The speakers concluded that while quantum’s full scope remains unforeseen, its transition to a normal, powerful tool is imminent, unlocking countless opportunities and transforming our world.