The quantum computer is no longer the stuff of science fiction.
Pioneering physicists are on the brink of unlocking a new quantum
universe which provides a better representation of reality than our
everyday experiences and common sense ever could. The birth of quantum
computers - which, like Schrödinger's famous "dead and alive" cat, rely
on entities like electrons, photons, or atoms existing in two states at
the same time - is set to turn the computing world on its head. In his
fascinating study of this cutting-edge technology, and featuring a new
introduction, John Gribbin explores the nature of quantum reality,
arguing for a universe of many parallel worlds where "everything is
real." Looking back to Alan Turing's work on the Enigma machine and the
first electronic computer, Gribbin explains how quantum theory developed
to make quantum computers work in practice as well as in principle. He
takes us beyond the arena of theoretical physics to explore their
practical applications - from machines which learn through "intuition"
and trial and error to unhackable laptops and smartphones. And he
investigates the potential for this extraordinary science to create a
world where communication occurs faster than light and teleportation is
possible. This is an exciting insider's look at the new frontier of
computer science and its revolutionary implications.
