Artificial intelligence is speeding up the development of quantum computing, shortening the time frame in which modern cryptography may become vulnerable. This was reported by CoinDesk.

Alex Pruden, head of Project Eleven, stated that machine learning is already being used to optimize error correction, a key barrier in the creation of quantum computers. AI is being utilized not only for protection but also for identifying vulnerabilities in cryptography and software.

NEAR co-founder Ilya Polosukhin noted that artificial intelligence has been accelerating scientific research for several years. He suggested that the next generation of quantum systems might be developed using AI.

Polosukhin also pointed to a scenario of "collect now—decrypt later": encrypted traffic can be intercepted today with the expectation of future decryption.

The risk is critical for the crypto industry. Most blockchains use elliptic curve cryptography. A sufficiently powerful quantum computer could theoretically derive a private key from a public one, compromising wallets.

In Ethereum, the public key is revealed after a transaction is sent, potentially making accounts vulnerable.

In March, Google estimated that breaking 256-bit elliptic curve cryptography would require about 1,200 logical qubits—significantly lower than previous estimates. The company plans to transition to post-quantum cryptography by 2029.

In March, the Ethereum Foundation presented a roadmap for protecting the network from quantum computers. The ecosystem conducts weekly tests involving over 10 client teams. The foundational infrastructure for protection is expected to be completed by 2029.

In April, Ripple unveiled a roadmap for the post-quantum readiness of the XRP Ledger, targeting a completion date of 2028. The platform is testing validators in collaboration with Project Eleven.

Market participants estimate that the key risk lies not only in quantum computing but also in its combination with AI.

As a reminder, in May, AmericanFortress proposed another method to protect Bitcoin from the quantum threat.