The Real Reason Why Semiconductor-Based Quantum Computers Rarely Make Headlines: Industry Culture Clashes and a Quiet Revolution

When following the latest discussions and news on quantum computing, you may notice that superconducting and photonic quantum computers are frequently in the spotlight, while semiconductor-based quantum computers receive surprisingly little attention. Why is that?

Cultural Clashes Between Industries

At first glance, the semiconductor and quantum computing industries may appear to be naturally compatible. In reality, however, they are rooted in fundamentally different cultures and business ecosystems. The semiconductor industry has spent decades building a massive, well-established infrastructure with standardized rules and proven processes.

In contrast, the quantum computing industry is relatively young, having emerged largely from academic research. The differences between the two sectors include:

• Development Approaches: Semiconductors follow an engineering-driven approach focused on mass production, while quantum computing is grounded in physics and long-term research.
• Timelines: The semiconductor world operates on short, product-driven cycles; the quantum world moves at a longer, research-driven pace.
• Talent Profiles: Semiconductor companies are largely staffed by engineers; quantum computing is led by physicists.

These mismatches create friction and make meaningful discussions around semiconductor-based quantum computers more difficult.

High Barriers to Entry in Established Industries

Bringing quantum technology into the established semiconductor industry is far more challenging than it may seem. Semiconductor supply chains, commerce, and fabrication processes have been optimized over decades, and introducing quantum devices into this ecosystem requires substantial retooling.

Adapting conventional semiconductor fabs for quantum device production demands massive capital investment and new technical developments, both of which take considerable time and money.

A Threat to Existing Industry Structures

Interestingly, if semiconductor-based quantum computers become commercially viable, they could fundamentally disrupt the existing structure of the quantum computing industry—a fact that may be perceived as a threat by current stakeholders.

If quantum computers based on semiconductor technologies become reality:

• Mass production becomes feasible, driving down costs significantly.
• Devices can be miniaturized.
• Existing semiconductor manufacturing infrastructure can be leveraged.

These shifts could overturn business models that depend on large-scale research facilities or exotic materials, potentially rendering them obsolete.

Quiet Progress Toward Real-World Deployment

Despite the lack of media coverage, semiconductor-based quantum computers are steadily progressing toward practical implementation. And interestingly, this work is not being driven by quantum physicists, but by LSI (Large-Scale Integration) engineers.

While technologies like silicon spin qubits and silicon photonics-based quantum processors do rely on an understanding of quantum mechanics, actual implementation hinges far more on semiconductor fabrication expertise. In many cases, semiconductor process bottlenecks outweigh quantum mechanical limitations.

Signs of Change

Semiconductor quantum computing is slowly gaining traction through developments such as:

• The emergence of qubits that can operate at higher temperatures.
• Improved compatibility with existing CMOS processes.
• Increased qubit integration density.

These advancements may offer solutions to scalability, cost, and cooling challenges that conventional quantum computers continue to face.

Conclusion

The lack of visibility for semiconductor quantum computing is rooted in a complex mix of cultural divides, structural inertia, and perceived threats to existing business models. However, its quiet but steady evolution holds immense potential to reshape the future of quantum computing.

When the engineering prowess of the semiconductor world merges with the principles of quantum physics, a true quantum revolution may be born. And in that moment, we may witness a new technological paradigm—one that transcends traditional industry boundaries.