IBM CEO Tells Nikkei Global Management Forum “Hybrid Cloud & Quantum Computing to Shape IT”

(AsiaNikkei) IBM CEO Arvind Krishna told the Nikkei Global Management Forum in Tokyo on Wednesday that “Artificial intelligence and hybrid cloud technology, as well as quantum computing, will be forces that shape the near future of the IT industry”.
The annual forum brings together influential corporate leaders from around the world to share their views on the role of business in society. This year’s theme centers on responding to an unprecedented time of change brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic
Krishna also stressed the importance of quantum computing, which he said “can unlock many benefits for both industry and society that are beyond the reach of today’s computers.”
“We believe within three to five years you can begin to tackle problems that are beyond the reach of normal computers,” he said, citing potential applications. “You can solve problems around molecules like lithium hydride, which is an element in many electric batteries.”
However, Krishna also pointed out that it is necessary to improve accuracy in quantum computing in order to tap its full potential, saying, “Today, these computers have a lot of errors. … It is an issue that has to be solved.”