At Nvidia’s annual developer conference in San Jose, California, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang held interviews with executives from quantum computing firms on Thursday. Huang acknowledged that his earlier comments expressing skepticism about the timeline for the arrival of useful quantum computers were misguided. During the “Quantum Day” event at Nvidia’s annual GTC Conference, Huang admitted his error by inviting guests to discuss his previous statements.
In January, Huang’s remarks caused fluctuations in quantum computing stocks when he suggested that it could be more than 15 years before the technology became practical. At the recent event, Huang likened the growth of quantum companies to Nvidia’s own early stages, referring to the time it took for Nvidia to establish its software and hardware business. He also expressed surprise that his comments had impacted the market and humorously questioned how quantum computing companies could be publicly traded.
During the event, representatives from 12 quantum companies and startups participated in panels, highlighting a reconciliation between Nvidia and the quantum computing industry following the backlash to Huang’s initial comments. Additional discussions included representatives from Microsoft and Amazon Web Services, both of which are investing in quantum technology and are significant Nvidia customers.
Embracing quantum technology is important for Nvidia as the company aims to integrate graphics processing units (GPUs) with quantum chips for future computing needs. Huang acknowledged the complex nature of quantum computing and expressed optimism about its potential impact. Nvidia recently announced plans to establish a research center in Boston for collaboration with quantum companies and research institutions.
Quantum computing, a long-standing aspiration for researchers, operates on qubits that offer multiple possibilities compared to classical computers that use binary bits. While quantum computers have not yet outperformed traditional computers in solving practical problems, advances in error correction have been reported. The panel also addressed the potential threat quantum computing could pose to companies reliant on transistor-based computers, like Nvidia.
Overall, the event served as a platform for discussions on the intricate nature of quantum computing, its potential applications, and the evolving landscape of technology innovation.
Huang discussed the purpose of computing during the panel, referring to accelerated computing as the type of GPU computers made by Nvidia. He reflected on his earlier belief that this technology would replace traditional computers and revolutionize the way computing is done, only to realize he was mistaken. In other news from CNBC, Nike anticipates a sales decline in the upcoming quarter due to tariffs and decreasing consumer confidence, while the Boston Celtics have been sold for $6.1 billion to a group led by Bill Chisholm. Additionally, Edible Arrangements’ parent company is introducing a marketplace for alternative edibles.
