Quantum technologies: Germany's path to the digital revolution!

Quantum technologies: Germany's path to the digital revolution!

Quantum physics is increasingly finding its way into public perception and technological development. With the book “A Quantum Future – Quantum Physics and Quantum Technologies Simply Explained”, written by Dr. Patrick Emonts and Dr. Johannes Knörzer and published by Springer-Verlag, a comprehensive overview of this complex topic is offered. The 307 pages of the book are specifically aimed at the general public and cover both the fundamentals of quantum physics and the opportunities and challenges of modern quantum technologies.

The authors, both experienced physicists, bring their extensive expertise to the work. Dr. Emonts has been leading a research group at Ulm University since April 2025, while Dr. Knörzer has been researching at ETH Zurich since 2022. The book is accompanied by a foreword by the renowned Professor Susanne Yelin from Harvard and offers not only a scientific foundation, but also a clarity that enables readers without specialist knowledge to understand the background.

Main content and technologies

One of the main goals of the book and the associated science communication is to introduce readers to the four core areas of modern quantum technologies:

• Quantencomputing
• Quantensimulation
• Quantenkommunikation
• Quantenmetrologie

These technologies represent not only scientific achievements, but also the potential to fundamentally transform industry and society. In this context, the Federal Ministry of Economics has announced that it will support the development of quantum technologies with 878 million euros.

The advances in quantum communication are remarkable. China is considered a pioneer in this area, with a 2,000 kilometer fiber optic network enabling quantum cryptography and the implementation of the first quantum cryptographically secured video conference. The term “quantum supremacy” describes the growing ability of quantum computers to solve specific problems faster than traditional computers. This technology could make a breakthrough within ten years and surpass classic computers.

Practical applications and future visions

The current state of qubits in quantum processors varies from a few dozen to hundreds. However, millions of qubits are necessary for significant progress. The automotive industry, including companies such as BMW and Volkswagen, is currently evaluating the use of quantum computers and developing appropriate algorithms. This shows that quantum physics and the associated technologies are no longer a theoretical science, but are increasingly finding practical applications.

Commercial quantum cryptography systems have been available for 15 years, with tap-proof communication channels being one of the main applications of quantum communication. Highly sensitive sensors and precise timepieces were also developed, which have their origins in the findings of quantum technologies.

The EU Commission launched the quantum flagship project in 2018 to invest several billion euros in promoting these technologies. Germany has also published a “Quantum Computing Roadmap” and plans to position itself as a world leader in quantum computing and quantum sensing over the next ten years.

Overall, it is clear that the fundamental research results in the field of quantum physics and quantum technologies are becoming increasingly important not only among scientists and technicians, but also among the general public. The development and discussion surrounding the possibilities of these technologies will play a central role in the coming years.

For a detailed discussion of the topics of quantum physics and technologies, please refer to the book by Dr. Patrick Emonts and Dr. Johannes Knörzer, which provides a well-founded basis for everyone to better understand this fascinating science. Further information on current developments and programs can be found at Deutschlandfunk and patrickemonts.com.