Dfinity skunkworks road map - Why ICP/DFINITY Should Add Quantum Computing and Resistance to the Roadmap Now

Hello again everyone,

ICP powered by the DFINITY Foundation, has a bold vision: a decentralized, scalable blockchain that redefines how we compute and interact online. But to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving tech landscape, it’s time for ICP to make a loud, strategic move—announce that quantum computing and quantum-resistant code updates are being added to the roadmap.

Here’s why this matters, and how it positions ICP
Why ICP/DFINITY Should Add Quantum Computing and Resistance to the Roadmap Nowas a leader, not a follower.

A Market Move: Beat the Competition
Quantum computing isn’t some distant sci-fi dream—it’s barreling toward us, with breakthroughs from Google, IBM, and others signaling a shift that could disrupt cryptography as we know it. Blockchains that don’t adapt risk obsolescence. By proactively declaring quantum resistance as a priority, ICP doesn’t just react to the market—it sets the pace. It’s a signal to investors, developers, and the crypto ecosystem that DFINITY isn’t coasting on past promises but is ready to tackle the next frontier. Competitors like Ethereum are already mulling post-quantum strategies—ICP can leapfrog them by committing now, grabbing headlines and mindshare.
Beyond the Same Old Story
Let’s face it: the blockchain space is full of repetitive mantras—decentralization, scalability, security. That’s fine for newcomers, but seasoned players want to know what’s next. Quantum computing is the future, and it’s not just about resisting attacks—it’s about harnessing its power. GPUs gave us crypto mining; TPUs and ASICs supercharged AI and specialized workloads. Quantum tech is the logical evolution, promising exponential leaps in computation. ICP should stop repeating the “newbie-friendly” pitch and start painting a picture of a future where it’s the go-to platform for quantum-ready dApps. Tell us how canister smart contracts will evolve, how consensus will adapt, and what steps are already in motion.
The Vision: ICP as the Quantum-Ready Ecosystem
DFINITY should articulate a clear stance: ICP isn’t just surviving the quantum age—it’s embracing it. Imagine subnets optimized for quantum computation, enabling breakthroughs in AI, cryptography, and beyond. Quantum-resistant signatures (think lattice-based crypto or hash-based schemes) could be baked into the protocol, ensuring long-term security. Meanwhile, ICP’s scalability and reverse-gas model make it a natural home for quantum-powered apps—think drug discovery, climate modeling, or next-gen DeFi. This isn’t just about defense; it’s about offense—building a platform that thrives in a quantum world.
Who to Bring Onboard? Call Out the Innovators
ICP should roll out the red carpet for cutting-edge companies like Liquid AI, who are pushing boundaries in AI with specialized hardware. Why Liquid AI? They’re already rethinking compute with non-traditional architectures—pair that with ICP’s decentralized vision, and you’ve got a match made in tech heaven. Encourage them to build quantum-ready AI dApps on ICP, leveraging its unbounded capacity. Invite others too—quantum startups, AI pioneers, even hardware firms designing TPUs or ASICs—to see ICP as the sandbox where future tech meets blockchain. Name names, set the stage, and watch the ecosystem grow.
Let’s Build This Future
DFINITY, it’s time to act. Add quantum computing and resistance to the roadmap—don’t just hint at it in forums or vague posts. Be specific: outline the research, the timelines, the partnerships. Show us you’re not just topical but ahead of the curve. The community’s ready—developers, node operators, and dreamers like me want to build this with you. Let’s make ICP the blockchain that doesn’t just survive the future but defines it. Who’s with me?

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There is still time, I wouldn’t worry about it.
Check out current state by watching Dr. Hossenfelder

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Appreciate the heads-up on Dr. Hossenfelder’s take
-quantum’s current state is definitely worth a look. But my point isn’t about panic or timing; it’s about strategy. Announcing quantum computing and resistance on ICP’s roadmap isn’t just playing defense—it’s a chance to leap ahead of competitors, grab market attention, and show ICP’s ready for the future. It’s less about ‘is there time?’ and more about ‘why wait?’ What do you think about the optics and adoption boost this could bring?

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It’s a good idea to get ahead of everyone else on quantum computing. But I’m also thinking in terms of how much closer it would bring us to mass adoption compared to other features/advancements. Also, how long would it all take.

If there are much simpler features that can be implemented quicker and that would bring lots of attention, maybe even more than quantum resistant tech, then we should prioritize that first. A web 3 version of Youtube, OnlyFans, and cont’d upgrades to Ai should be prioritized, imo.

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Honestly, adding quantum-resistant tech to the roadmap doesn’t have to break the bank—it’s more about planting the seed now and building toward it. We can slot it in without derailing focus from faster wins.

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