Google Quantum Breakthrough Sparks New Concerns for Bitcoin Security

A breakthrough from Google’s quantum division is reshaping assumptions about the future of cybersecurity—and may bring the cryptographic foundations of Bitcoin closer to vulnerability than previously believed.

In a newly released scientific paper, Google researchers revealed that quantum computers could now theoretically break RSA-2048 encryption using fewer than 1 million qubits, a staggering reduction from their earlier 2019 estimate, which required 20 million. The updated model suggests this process could be completed in under a week—far sooner and with far fewer resources than the world anticipated.

Lead researcher Craig Gidney attributed the leap to improvements in two key areas: faster quantum algorithms and a more compact, efficient method for error correction. A notoriously complex operation known as “modular exponentiation” was made twice as fast, and a technique called “magic state cultivation” dramatically reduced the physical resources required to maintain quantum stability during computations.

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While these theoretical systems remain years away from deployment—today’s top quantum computers have nowhere near the qubit count needed—the research signals that quantum threats are no longer just a futuristic talking point. IBM’s most powerful machine to date, Condor, has just 1,121 qubits; Google’s own Sycamore chip operates at a mere 53.

Although Bitcoin doesn’t rely on RSA, it uses elliptic curve cryptography (ECC)—a system based on similar mathematical principles. Many cryptographers believe that once RSA becomes obsolete under quantum pressure, ECC may follow closely behind. Bitcoin’s 256-bit encryption is still considered safe for now, but the accelerating pace of quantum development suggests its defenses could eventually be compromised.

The news isn’t an immediate cause for panic—but it is a clear sign. Institutions relying on current encryption standards will need to rethink their long-term security infrastructure. And for Bitcoin and the broader blockchain ecosystem, the race toward quantum-resilient cryptography just became a lot more urgent.

Alexander Stefanov

With over 8 years of experience in the cryptocurrency and blockchain industry, Alexander is a seasoned content creator and market analyst dedicated to making digital assets more accessible and understandable. He specializes in breaking down complex crypto trends, analyzing market movements, and producing insightful content aimed at educating both newcomers and seasoned investors. Alexander has built a reputation for delivering timely and accurate analysis, while keeping a close eye on regulatory developments, emerging technologies, and macroeconomic trends that shape the future of digital finance. His work is rooted in a passion for innovation and a firm belief that widespread education is key to accelerating global crypto adoption.