Why Quantum, Why Now - The Case for Better Qubits and Better Data

Learn about the transformative potential of quantum computing and the critical advances needed to make it a reality in this technical lecture by Microsoft Technical Fellow Dr. Krysta Svore. Explore how quantum computers can generate novel data that classical systems cannot produce—data essential for AI models, scientific discovery, and expanding our understanding of the world. Discover the fundamental challenge of quantum reliability and how quantum error correction is enabling the dramatic improvements needed for high-accuracy outputs at scale. Examine neutral atom architectures and their unique advantages in scalability and connectivity, while understanding how these techniques integrate into common platforms supporting complementary hardware systems. Investigate how qubit virtualization and hybrid quantum-classical systems are accelerating progress toward fault-tolerant quantum computing. Gain insights into how improved quantum hardware and advanced error correction methods are transforming quantum data generation into a powerful resource for science and society, presented by a leading expert with over 70 publications and 30 patents who brought the first quantum computers to Azure and continues driving innovation at the intersection of quantum hardware, software, and scientific discovery.