Harvard Expert Shayan Majidy Debunks 3 Quantum Computing Myths, Says Practical Access Could Broaden in 5-10 Years
Updated
Updated · New Scientist · May 12
Harvard Expert Shayan Majidy Debunks 3 Quantum Computing Myths, Says Practical Access Could Broaden in 5-10 Years
1 articles · Updated · New Scientist · May 12
Three points anchor Shayan Majidy’s explanation: quantum computers already exist, they help only on a narrow set of problems, and they do not test every possible answer at once.
5-10 years is Majidy’s rough horizon for students to routinely access quantum machines through the cloud, though today they remain specialized tools used mainly by researchers and some public platforms.
Specific gains come from carefully designed quantum algorithms for tasks such as factoring, unstructured search, quantum-system simulation and some optimization or linear algebra problems—not everyday computing like web browsing or messaging.
2^n possible states for n qubits do not mean exponentially many readable answers: measurement collapses the state to one classical result, so useful algorithms must amplify correct outcomes and suppress wrong ones.
As quantum hardware rapidly advances, what is the key breakthrough needed to overcome the errors that currently limit their true potential?
Beyond breaking codes, which industry will be the first to see a real-world revolution from quantum computing's specialized power?
With quantum computers set to break current encryption, is the global transition to new security standards happening fast enough to avert a digital crisis?
Quantum Computing in 2026: Current Reality, Myths, Timelines, and the Urgent Race for Post-Quantum Security
Overview
As of May 2026, quantum computing is surrounded by both hype and misunderstanding, making it important to clarify its real status. Quantum computers already exist and are used mainly through the cloud by researchers and engineers for specialized tasks. They are not meant to replace classical computers for everyday use, but excel at solving complex problems that are too difficult for traditional systems. Rather than trying every solution at once, quantum algorithms are designed to increase the chance of finding the correct answer. Understanding these facts helps set realistic expectations and supports informed discussions about quantum technology.