The Vergecast · Thursday, July 9, 2026
Developing practical quantum computers requires overcoming substantial hardware challenges, including basic materials science problems for chip fabrication and the precise control of lasers. The analogy used is that scientists have prepared a symphony but only have 'crappy clarinets' to play it with, highlighting the gap between algorithms and hardware capabilities.
“Um, they have to improve the hardware. And, um, it's actually really, really difficult.”
“Um, it's quite different from, like, working in classical computing because they have to build everything from the ground up.”
“Um, they have to, like, basic materials problems that they have to solve.”
“Like how to make the chips like what combination of metals and semiconductors to use for different parts.”
“Um, they have to use, like, customized lasers.”