Quantum computing is poised to transform how we process information, making today’s most powerful computers look slow by comparison. Unlike classical computers that rely on binary bits—either 0 or 1—quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in multiple states at once.

In this episode of the Asia Tech Podcast, Dipen Mehta, EVP & GM for APAC at Softserve, breaks down why quantum computing is a game-changer.

Some of the topics that Dipen covered in detail include:

• Quantum computing introduces qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously—a phenomenon called superposition. This single feature allows quantum machines to process vastly more information at once, enabling computation on a previously unimaginable scale.
• We are still in the early innings of quantum’s commercial, but while we are early, it is inevitable.
• Quantum won’t replace classical computing—it will complement it. Each paradigm has its strengths, and early applications will likely leverage hybrid approaches.
• Artificial intelligence and quantum computing are on a collision course.
• Combining AI with quantum opens the door to what Mehta calls "real-time, hyper-personalized financial services."

Travel is evolving far beyond flights and hotel bookings. Today, technology—particularly artificial intelligence—is transforming how people choose destinations, plan trips, and engage with local experiences. From AI-powered travel planning tools to immersive digital environments that let travelers explore a place before arriving, the focus is shifting from convenience to personalization.

ATP went to the Travel & Tech Asia 2025 event in at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center in Bangkok, where thought leaders from across the travel industry revealed how technology is fundamentally reshaping how people discover, book, and experience travel.

Artificial intelligence emerged as a driving force, not just for automating tasks, but for creating deeply personalized and intuitive interactions—from chat-based trip planning to virtual hotel walk-throughs using digital twins. AI is also helping hotels manage high volumes of guests, respond instantly to reviews, and even bridge language gaps, making the travel experience smoother for both tourists and locals.

Equally important was the role of frictionless infrastructure. Cloud-based hotel systems now let owners manage properties from anywhere, while smart payment orchestration ensures transactions go through even when the first attempt fails. Meanwhile, immersive experiences—like Muay Thai fights enhanced with projection mapping—demonstrated how blending culture and technology can create emotional connections with travelers and amazing travel experiences!

As someone who’s spent years talking to technologists, entrepreneurs, and industry experts, I can confidently say: something seismic is happening in travel. Not just in how we go places—but in how we decide where to go, how we experience the destination, and how platforms build loyalty and create seamless, intelligent experiences.

Artificial intelligence is advancing rapidly across Asia, not only because of its economic potential but also due to the region’s strong appetite for innovation and global competitiveness. Countries are embracing AI to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and create smarter business strategies.

ATP spoke to Adrian Johnson, Senior VP and General Manager Americas and Asia Pacific at Hitachi Vantara about how countries like Singapore and China are not just experimenting with AI—they’re leading.

Some of the topics Adrian covered in detail include:

• Asia is the “market of the 21st century. With rapid economic development, fierce internal competition, and a drive for global relevance, Asia is leaping forward.
• Infrastructure built for yesterday can’t handle AI today. One of the biggest challenges companies face is that their current IT infrastructure simply wasn’t built for AI’s compute-heavy, high-performance demands.
• AI promises to level the playing field—but only if SMEs can access the tools. "AI-as-a-Service” could enable that, allowing SMEs to plug into powerful AI tools without building from scratch.
• No matter how powerful an AI model is, poor data quality guarantees poor outcomes. Getting data quality right is of the utmost importance.
• The next phase of AI is not just about private models—it’s about sovereign ones. These models will be geographically and legally confined, ensuring they comply with local laws and cultural expectations.
• AI isn’t just computationally expensive—it’s environmentally taxing. As quantum computing and edge computing enter the fray, there’s a pressing need to align innovation with sustainability.