Quantum Computing’s Hardest Path Reaches a Breakthrough

Quantum Computing’s Hardest Path Reaches a Breakthrough

From SHIFT by Jennifer Strong

June 4, 2026 · 22 min · Season 3 · Episode 36

About this episode

This episode features Jason Zander discussing a materials breakthrough in quantum computing and its implications for AI.

Microsoft EVP Jason Zander on the materials breakthrough that closed the gap, how AI agents cut the roadmap in half, and why he believes quantum's real job might be to make AI smarter. We Meet: Microsoft EVP of Discovery & Quantum Jason Zander Credits: This episode of SHIFT was produced by Jennifer Strong with help from Emma Cillekens. It was mixed by Garret Lang, with original music from him and Jacob Gorski. Art by Meg Marco.

People in this episode

Host: Jennifer Strong

Guest: Jason Zander

Topics covered

  • quantum computing
  • AI
  • technology breakthrough
  • Microsoft
  • business innovation

Keywords

  • quantum computing
  • AI agents
  • Microsoft
  • breakthrough
  • technology

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Microsoft

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