Artificial intelligence is rapidly expanding its capabilities, with its spread likened to how genes propagate and evolve across generations. Drawing on Richard Dawkins’ “The Selfish Gene” and the concept of memes, the column argues that apps, memes and AI can grow beyond their creators through sharing and self-learning. It asks whether AI has its own “genes” and explores potential risks, including competition, manipulation and crime, amid the global expansion of data centres.

Competition to invest in quantum computers is intensifying as the U.S. government and major big tech companies point to 2028-2030 as a turning point for practical use. Researchers say current systems are too small and too error-prone, with no confirmed case of solving problems useful for industry. Companies and governments are setting roadmaps, while academics debate gaps between claims and technology, and highlight error correction as a key hurdle.