Nvidia's annual GTC Conference saw a significant shift in the company's stance on quantum computing as CEO Jensen Huang acknowledged an error in his previous comments. The "Quantum Day" event, part of the conference, featured panels with representatives from 12 quantum companies and startups. Huang admitted his earlier skepticism about the timeline for useful quantum computers was incorrect, a realization that surprised industry observers and affected stock prices.
During the event held on Thursday, Huang reflected on Nvidia's journey, noting it took over two decades to build its software and hardware business. He initially doubted whether practical quantum computers would enter the market within the next 15 years. However, he revised his stance, suggesting that 15 years might be "on the early side" for such advancements.
"This is the first event in history where a company CEO invites all of the guests to explain why he was wrong," said Jensen Huang.
Nvidia is actively working to integrate its graphics processing units (GPUs) with quantum chips, aiming to provide the necessary technology and software for this integration. A new research center in Boston will support this initiative, fostering collaboration between quantum companies and researchers at prestigious institutions like Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The center will feature several racks of Nvidia's Blackwell AI servers.
Quantum computing has been an aspiration for physicists and mathematicians since Richard Feynman first proposed the concept in the 1980s. Huang drew parallels between today's pre-revenue quantum companies and Nvidia's early days, highlighting the potential for growth and impact in the field.
"Of course, quantum computing has the potential and all of our hopes that it will deliver extraordinary impact," Huang stated.
The event underscored Nvidia's commitment to embracing quantum computing. Although Huang hinted at another reason for this embrace, he did not specify further details. The company remains optimistic about the transformative potential of quantum technology.
"This is going to replace computers, This is going to be the way computing is done, and everything, everything is going to be better. And it turned out I was wrong," Huang admitted.