Microsoft’s Brad Smith Urges U.S. Leadership in Quantum Technology

Estimated reading time: 1 minute

In a blog post published on April 28, 2025, Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, underscores the critical need for the United States to accelerate investment in quantum technology. While public focus remains fixed on artificial intelligence, Smith argues that quantum computing is an equally vital frontier with the power to revolutionize industries and solve complex global challenges across science, medicine, energy, and agriculture.

Quantum technologies exploit subatomic particle behaviors to achieve computing, communication, and sensing breakthroughs. Smith explains that a fully scalable quantum computer could surpass the combined processing power of all conventional computers in existence, unlocking solutions once deemed impossible.

Smith highlights a recent Microsoft breakthrough: the development of a Majorana-based quantum chip. This chip uses Majorana quasiparticles to build more stable qubits, a significant step toward reducing errors caused by decoherence—a key obstacle in quantum computing. With innovations like this, Smith expresses confidence that practical quantum applications are on the horizon.

The article also examines the global quantum race, pointing to China’s significant investments aimed at challenging U.S. leadership. Citing Michael Kratsios, former Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Smith notes that dominance in emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing will increasingly define global power structures. To remain competitive, he urges the U.S. not to fall behind.

Reflecting on recent progress, Smith credits the 2018 National Quantum Initiative Act—enacted under the Trump administration—for laying a solid foundation. The act’s establishment of the National Quantum Coordination Office has strengthened national coordination and research momentum in this critical field.

In closing, Smith reinforces the importance of sustained federal investment in science and technology, calling it a "golden goose" that fuels innovation, economic growth, and national strength. He stresses that America’s leadership in quantum research is essential for competitiveness and addressing the world's toughest challenges.

To read Brad Smith’s full posting, click here.