The internet and traditional computers have come up with revolutionary solutions for generating randomness in a digital format, and random number generators have become essential in the online world. Used in various offshoots of the entertainment industry, these tools have been tested to be completely effective and unpredictable.
Still, some would argue that even RNGs haven’t managed to unlock true unpredictability yet. They are effective for their applications and have proved infallible in that regard, but quantum computers have the potential to take things a step further. These incredibly powerful devices could start to creep into the mainstream over the next few decades.
Random Number Generators Can Achieve Pseudo-Randomness
Quantum computers are unlikely to dethrone random number generators, as the existing protocols are already perfectly suited to their tasks. They can achieve what’s known as pseudo-randomness, which, according to the dictionary, means they are selected by a “definite computational process” but satisfy various tests for statistical randomness.
Games like the Plinko Go real money slot rely on RNG to ensure that the outcomes are different every time and impossible for players to predict. In the iGaming industry, titles such as this are tested rigorously to make sure that they are completely fair. The real world game of Plinko is a great example of randomness, as the balls will fall in different ways each time even if you drop them from the same places.
RNG is the best option for randomness in the entertainment industry, and it has been through rigorous testing to prove its infallibility. Quantum computing is unlikely to displace RNGs in this regard. Instead, it will be used for more complex tasks that require the true unpredictability that this technology will be able to achieve.
Quantum Randomness Will Have Other Applications
Quantum computers will be able to achieve true randomness thanks to the fact that they use quantum bits instead of the binary units of classical computers. Because qubits can exist in multiple states simultaneously and can behave unpredictably, unlike classical computers that are limited in their programming.
There are numerous applications where quantum randomness will have a powerful effect, with online security being up there with the most important of these. Quantum randomness is a key part of quantum cryptography, particularly in Quantum Key Distribution. This allows two parties to securely exchange cryptographic keys with the assurance that any eavesdropping attempt will be detected.
Another use for quantum randomness is in complex scientific simulations. When scientists want to test their theories, they will be able to run thousands of random simulations to come to a more accurate conclusion. Monte Carlo simulation are used in this field already, and quantum computing will lead to higher precision in these. For example, quantum randomness can improve the simulation of molecular interactions and chemical reactions, leading to more accurate predictions of drug efficacy and material properties.
Quantum computing is on the way, and with it comes quantum randomness. This will lead to greater leaps forward in science and technology, especially in security and simulations. However, it won’t replace random number generators, which have been proven to be highly successful.