For years, quantum computing has been classified as an emerging technology—one with vast theoretical potential but still distant from practical impact. However, recent breakthroughs from global giant tech players suggest that quantum capabilities are advancing at a far quicker pace than previously anticipated. With new error correction techniques and scalable quantum chips, the transition from research labs to real-world applications is accelerating.

Companies that once considered quantum computing as a long-term consideration may now need to reassess their timelines. As quantum systems move from theoretical models to early-stage commercial implementations, the competitive landscape is shifting, forcing industries to explore the potential implications—and challenges—sooner rather than later.

Unlike classical computers, which process data in binary form (0s and 1s), quantum computers operate using qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously due to superposition and can interact with each other through entanglement. This unique property allows quantum machines to solve complex problems at speeds exponentially greater than even the most powerful supercomputers.

The potential applications span across several key industries, each standing to benefit from quantum’s ability to process massive datasets, enhance simulations, and optimize complex systems in ways never before possible.

For the finance & risk management sector, quantum computing could enable real-time risk analysis, fraud detection, and portfolio optimization at unprecedented levels of complexity. Institutions handling massive financial data sets may soon gain capabilities far beyond what classical computing allows.

The potential identified across the pharmaceuticals & healthcare are drug discovery, molecular simulation, and personalized medicine stand to which can be revolutionized by quantum algorithms. Simulating molecular interactions—currently an extremely time-consuming computational process—could be drastically accelerated, leading to faster drug development and more effective treatments.

Optimizing supply chains and manufacturing operations could become more efficient with quantum-enhanced decision-making models, minimizing costs and improving operational resilience.

Artificial Intelligence & machine learning could undergo a significant leap forward, as quantum computing enhances deep learning algorithms, optimization processes, and complex neural network computations, pushing the boundaries of automation, pattern recognition, and problem-solving.

Yet, with every technological revolution comes a new set of risks—and in the case of quantum computing, cybersecurity remains a critical concern.

Today's encryption standards, which safeguard financial transactions, sensitive personal data, and even national security systems, rely on the mathematical difficulty of breaking cryptographic keys. However, a sufficiently advanced quantum computer could potentially crack these encryption methods in a fraction of the time it would take a classical computer, rendering much of today’s cybersecurity infrastructure obsolete.

In response, researchers and organizations are working on quantum-resistant encryption protocols, but businesses must start evaluating their long-term security strategies now to prevent potential vulnerabilities when quantum attacks become a reality.

Quantum computing is still in its early stages, and widespread commercial adoption is not imminent. However, its trajectory is unmistakable. Companies that begin exploring potential applications, assessing risks, and investing in talent and partnerships today will be best positioned to capitalize on quantum advancements when they become mainstream.

The question is no longer whether quantum computing will transform industries, but how soon. Organizations that adapt early and strategically prepare for this paradigm shift will gain a crucial competitive edge, while those who wait risk being left behind in the next great technological revolution.

Augmented Reality (AR) as a technology enabler to digitalisation of global operations in delivery of connectivity and complex network solutions.

Talia, a Commercis Plc company and global leader in providing communications solutions and services to organisations based in remote locations, has unveiled a first-in-class augmented reality (AR) support platform that enables field service engineers to deliver evidence-based support services.

In the aftermath of the global pandemic, vendors have experienced resource shortages and economic pressures in the face of rising demand. These challenges are leading many to look to new and innovative ways to continue to deliver robust service and support.

Talia believes AR can significantly benefit clients when delivering first-line support, especially in inspection, maintenance, education, and repairs. First, interventions and analysis can be undertaken remotely, enabling immediate fixes for non-critical faults, saving time and enhancing service quality. Secondly, carefully scripted scenarios enable remote expert engineers to clearly and safely navigate complex infrastructure directly, assisting client-based technicians.

"Engineering expertise combined with the latest augmented reality technology enables Talia and its clients to facilitate a more sophisticated approach to support, a clearer understanding of service issues along with faster, more intelligent decision-making," said Alan Afrasiab, Talia CEO and President. "Investing in innovative technologies minimises risks and decreases the time required to complete tasks whilst increasing productivity and reducing operational costs; it also frees up time and reduces dependency on our engineers, ensuring they can share their knowledge and respond to the most urgent issues."

The combination of continuously evolving high-performance headsets, connectivity and software applications makes AR technology a compelling solution for clients.

Eliminating the reliance on in-person service not only means that engineers can stay focussed on critical issues while delivering fast responses and solutions to clients but also that the environmental impact of staff travelling to a site can be reduced, further easing global sustainability pressures.

Furthermore, by recording interactions and analysing data collected, Talia can identify potential issues and more severe hazards to mitigate risk. With access to this data, future engineers can use this accrued knowledge to train in real-life simulations in a safe and controlled setting, allowing them to practice complex tasks without the risk of injury or damage to equipment.

AR can be hugely beneficial by providing real-time intelligence to support operational and preventive maintenance decision-making. With further enhancements in artificial intelligence, the scale and reach of solutions and services offered, future maintenance and problem-solving can be faster and potentially further automated.