To this day, we have yet to see a quantum computer conclusively perform a single useful task. Existing machines are simply too small and error-ridden to solve commercially relevant problems.

Companies drive the hype, with Microsoft claiming a new quantum chip will lead to a 'scalable, practical quantum computer' by 2029. But independent experts criticize these announcements as unrealistic.

The promise of quantum computing is that it excels at simulating probabilities and complex systems, but current machines like Google's Willow are too primitive for practical applications.

Researchers predict quantum computers could revolutionize drug development and cryptography, yet the technology remains largely theoretical. As companies pour billions into development, the question remains: when will we see real-world benefits?