The nature of technology is one of swift progress and continuous change. The innovation of today is old news tomorrow, and breakthroughs make what was once considered “cutting edge” obsolete. Quantum technology, once science fiction but now a rapidly approaching reality, has the potential to transform computing and all related technologies as we know it. IBM defines quantum computing as using “specialized technology—including computer hardware and algorithms that take advantage of quantum mechanics—to solve complex problems that classical computers or supercomputers can’t solve, or can’t solve quickly enough.” Whereas classical computers store information in bits, quantum computers use quibits, which are able to be manipulated and perform tasks that the traditional bit cannot.

The idea of quantum computing has been around in science fiction and research for decades, but recently, great strides have been made to bring theory to practice.

What can quantum computing do for you? Because of their speed, quantum computers can process data that would be impossible or take an incredibly long time to process. The Wall Street Journal recently presented the idea that quantum computing can prevent missed flight connections by streamlining the airline gate assignment process.

Industries from finance to medicine will be able to solve problems and operate in a more efficient and personalized manner because of the optimization of quantum computers. For example, quantum computers can process the thousands of variables involved in developing a cancer treatment radiation plan and isolate the most effective ones. The power of these computers can also improve MRI imaging to the point of showing single molecules.

Quantum computing could also improve training in artificial intelligence. It can reduce both the energy and physical space needed to train these models. The more quality data that is processed by AI models, the more helpful AI will be to our daily lives.

The future of quantum computing is both deeply promising and deeply unknown. Because of this, it is helpful to look toward the core principles that have fueled American innovation to guide the conversation around this emerging technology. Avoiding preemptive regulation, encouraging market accountability, and using existing legal and ethical standards to guide development is vital to ensuring a future where both people and innovation flourish.