- Quantum computers using Shor’s algorithm may compromise Bitcoin’s Elliptic Curve Cryptography, creating risks for all digital signatures.
- Google’s Willow chip and research by Craig Gidney highlight faster quantum breakthroughs, accelerating the timeline for needed crypto upgrades.
Anatoly Yakovenko, a co-founder of Solana, recently addressed the potential impact of quantum computing on Bitcoin. He delivered his comments at the All-In Summit 2025. Yakovenko stated that progress in quantum computing technology could threaten the cryptographic security of the Bitcoin network. He suggested the blockchain might eventually need to transition to a new system.
Yakovenko assigned a 50% probability to a major quantum computing advancement occurring within five years. Such an advancement would allow for the practical use of Shor’s algorithm.
This specific algorithm possesses the capability to break the digital signature schemes that currently protect Bitcoin transactions. In his view, a preemptive shift to a quantum-resistant algorithm is a necessary step to prevent security breaches.
Craig Gidney, a Quantum AI researcher working with Google, issued a similar warning several months ago. Gidney’s research indicated that breaking certain types of encryption now requires substantially fewer quantum resources than prior models had predicted. Although Bitcoin utilizes Elliptic Curve Cryptography instead of RSA, both are susceptible to Shor’s algorithm.
The emergence of new quantum processors, like the Google Willow chip, lends a tangible quality to these theoretical risks. This situation creates a clear imperative for the Bitcoin development community. Their task involves creating and implementing advanced cryptographic technologies capable of resisting quantum-powered attacks.
