Quantum computers will radically change how we communicate

By Dick Pelletier

      

    Since the beginning of the 21st century, advances in computing technology, from processing speed to network capacity and the Internet have revolutionized our lives. From sequencing genomes to monitoring the climate, many scientific advances would have been impossible without an increase in computing power.
   
    Now, quantum computers with superconductors made of carbon nanotubes are about to harness atoms and molecules and will soon be able to calculate billions of times faster than silicon-based computers. Scientists predict this technology will radically improve our lives. By 2030, we will have access to something approaching all information all the time. Our lives, much longer by then because of the quantum impact on healthcare, will experience huge changes.

    Already most software and data is moving to the Internet. Photos, music, programs like Microsoft Word (which formatted this article) and other applications we use a computer for will be accessible anytime, anywhere.

    In a Fortune Magazine article, Peter Schwartz and Rita Koselka describe how quantum computers could combine all of our communication systems – cell phone, computer, TV, radio, and the Internet – into chips on a thin headband that transmits information between the Internet and our brain, and to other headbands.

    Stuart Wolf, Nanostar director at University of Virginia predicts an even more Earth-shaking change. Within 20 years, he says, instead of cell phone conversations we will have "network-enabled telepathy." We will communicate directly to another person's headband from anywhere in the world – using just our thoughts.

    Recognizing thoughts instead of 'voice-speak' may be confusing at first experts say, but with training, "thought-talking" could become easy and routine by mid-2030s. The following scenario portrays what life might be like in this future time:

    Your computer-driven auto-drive electric car rolls its top down on this warm day. You manually drive to the electronic roadway on-ramp and relinquish the wheel. Your headband selects a video to enjoy on the way to the airport where your 'smart' car drops you off at the terminal, then auto-parks itself. An "intelligent cam" scans your mind and quickly approves you; no waiting for ticket-check or security.

    While boarding the plane, you see a familiar face. Your headband immediately flashes his identity data and displays it on your eyes. "Dr. Jones," you call out. "It's so nice to see you again. How was the conference?" only a slight flicker of Jones' eyes betrays that he is Googling your details too. "Hi Dick; the conference was great and congrats on your Estonia presentation.

    Welcome to the 2030s. Our headband enables us to speak or think of any question and get an immediate answer. Experts believe every adult and student on Earth will one day become connected to a system similar to this.

    Consider how this would benefit 3rd world citizens. The necessity to learn languages would disappear; and if the devices were cheap enough, which experts claim will be a certainty with nano-replicators expected by 2030; headbands will be affordable for everyone.

    Quantum computers will greatly improve relationships. No more forgetting names and details; plus, increased intimacy generated by communicating by thought, could bring people around the world closer together, as we enter this "magical future" time.

This article appeared in various print publications and on-line blogs. Comments always welcome.