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Introduction
Quantum theory is the branch of physics that seeks to explain phenomena occurring at the atomic or sub-atomic scale and the formative work was conducted by Bohr, Planck, Einstein and others during the early years of the 20th century. The two main quantum principles driving developments in quantum technology (QT) are entanglement and superposition. Briefly, quantum entanglement is when two atoms or particles are connected, or “entangled”, despite being spatially separated. If you change the properties of one, the other changes instantly. Quantum superposition is the idea that particles simultaneously exist in multiple states. When a measurement is performed, it is as if the particle selects one of the states in the superposition. These seemingly paradoxical concepts cannot be understood through classical physics.
Numerous devices have been developed that are underpinned by quantum phenomena, such as lasers, flash memories and LEDs. These are not regarded as QT devices as they do not involve the direct manipulation of quantum states. A quantum device can be defined as one that intentionally uses or harnesses quantum mechanical effects for its operation. These have the potential to yield devices and techniques that outperform their conventional counterparts and, perhaps, offer unique functionalities and examples include quantum computers, sensors, imaging devices and communications. Most are still at the research or early prototype stages and are the topic of global academic and corporate development efforts. The aim of this article is to discuss the state of these activities and provide a preliminary insight into their potential use in robotics.
Overview of the global quantum technology landscape
QT is viewed as being potentially disruptive or strategic, and all of the world’s leading industrialised nations are involved with research and developments. Table 1 provides an insight into the scale and nature of these activities and illustrates that the USA and China presently have the greatest involvement, albeit through greatly differing approaches. China has provided massive state funding to research, whereas the USA has seen very significant investment in QT start-ups. In addition, both Canada and the UK have seen strong levels of start-up investment, at around $1.3bn and $1.6bn, respectively (2001–2023) and the UK’s National Quantum Strategy, announced in 2023, has committed £2.5bn to developing and commercialising QT over the next 10 years.