PsiQuantum's strategy is to build a million-qubit machine from the outset, a scale they argue is necessary for fault-tolerance and practical use after error correction. This 'go big or go home' approach contrasts with the incremental progress of many competitors and, if successful, could give them a commanding lead.
The discussion emphasizes the difficult transition deep tech companies face in moving from academic research to building a tangible product. Ashlee Vance notes that many academic-led teams get stuck in 'forever engineering,' but PsiQuantum has demonstrated significant progress in building real hardware and systems.
The quantum field is rife with conflicting claims and a history of unfulfilled promises, making it confusing for outsiders. The speakers advocate for a 'show, don't tell' approach, emphasizing that tangible progress, physical facilities, and demonstrable data are the best antidotes to skepticism.
Using SpaceX as a key example, Ashlee Vance argues that the most significant hardware companies take 10-12 years to mature and overcome early skepticism. This long, capital-intensive journey is a defining characteristic of building truly transformative physical technology.
Keep pulling the thread on Ashlee Vance.