Google will complete post-quantum cryptography transition before 2029.

Google Will Complete Post-Quantum Cryptography Transition Before 2029

Google has set a deadline of 2029 for transitioning to post-quantum cryptography (PQC), warning that the “quantum frontier” may be closer than we think.

On Wednesday, Google announced that rapid advancements in quantum computing hardware and quantum error correction, along with updated estimates of how quickly a quantum computer could break current standards, have created an urgency to act as soon as possible.

“Quantum computers will pose a significant threat to current encryption standards, especially for encryption and digital signatures,” Google said.

This is the first time Google has provided a specific timeline for deploying post-quantum capabilities across its products. The 2029 deadline is much earlier than some industry estimates of Q-Day—the point when quantum computers become powerful enough to break current public key cryptography.

“We have a responsibility to lead by example and provide an ambitious timetable.”

This call comes as Google continues to develop its quantum chip, Willow, capable of up to 105 qubits, making it one of the most powerful chips in the industry.

There are concerns that quantum computers could disrupt the cryptocurrency industry by breaking cryptographic algorithms that protect digital assets. However, there is still debate over whether only public key wallets are vulnerable or if all types of digital currencies are at risk.

Cryptocurrency Networks Are Also Seeking Post-Quantum Upgrades

The Ethereum Foundation has launched a “Post-Quantum Ethereum” resource center.

To protect the blockchain from threats posed by quantum computers and safeguard billions of dollars in assets on the network.

The post-quantum team plans to implement quantum-resistant solutions at the protocol level in Ethereum by 2029.

In January 2025, Solana developers created a quantum-resistant vault on the blockchain to protect user funds from quantum threats by deploying a complex hash-based signature system, generating new keys with each transaction.

However, to access this feature, Solana users need to store their funds in a Winternitz vault instead of regular Solana wallets, as this is not a network-wide security upgrade.

If successful, users will be able to store their assets more securely, though there are hurdles to overcome.

In the near future, investors will need to carefully monitor their assets due to the potential impact of quantum computing.