Quantum mechanics forms the foundation for a wide range of technological applications — from lasers and semiconductors to DVD players and supercomputers. The development of these technologies based on fundamental quantum research is often referred to as the first quantum revolution.

In recent years, a new development has begun to emerge that promises to dramatically change our world: the second quantum revolution. It harnesses the fact that radically new modes of information processing arise when individual physical systems — which obey the laws of quantum mechanics — are used as carriers of information.

Quantum computers, which are already being built on a moderate scale, are currently the subject of intense discussion. They promise solutions to important computational problems that are beyond the reach of even the most advanced supercomputers. After being a tantalizing theoretical vision for many years, quantum computers are now being realized in laboratories. Although they are not yet universal machines capable of solving all computational problems, they can already outperform supercomputers in solving certain paradigmatic tasks.

Quantum simulators provide insights into complex quantum systems in quantum chemistry and materials research that cannot be achieved through classical simulations. Quantum communication enables the secure transmission of data that cannot be intercepted. Such applications hold enormous technological potential.