Quantum Era: What's Coming Next Month from IBM and Google's Secret Labs

Quantum computing often felt like science fiction. However, as of mid-2025, IBM and Google’s breakthroughs suggest we might be witnessing the dawn of a new era. While “next month” might be hyperbole, the path toward industrial-grade quantum computers by decade's end is becoming clear.

IBM: Starling Builds the Foundation

IBM revealed a detailed roadmap for its Starling quantum computer, aiming for completion by 2029.

• Starling intends to operate 200 logical qubits capable of executing 100 million quantum gates.

• The leap Starling represents is akin to the jump from flip phones to smartphones.

Key intermediate steps:

• 2025 – Quantum Loon

• 2026 – Quantum Kookaburra

• 2027 – Quantum Cockatoo, culminating in Starling by 2029.

Google: Scaling with Error Correction

Google has demonstrated scalable surface code error correction, suggesting growing confidence in building reliable large-scale quantum machines.

Quantum Advantage by 2026

IBM predicts quantum advantage—where quantum systems outperform classical ones—might be tested by 2026.
In contrast, AWS remains cautious, estimating that truly useful quantum machines may take 15–30 years to materialize.

Why This Matters

Quantum computing holds revolutionary potential for:

• Drug discovery, material science, AI, optimization, and more.

• Security: The rise of quantum computing intensifies the need for quantum-resistant encryption to protect critical infrastructure.

While “next month” may be an overstatement, IBM and Google’s strides indicate that industrial-scale quantum computers are on the horizon — likely by 2029. Each announcement brings that vision closer to reality.