Google accelerates quantum safe encryption timeline to 2029

Google has set 2029 as its target to roll out post-quantum cryptography across its products, adding a firm deadline to a risk that has moved closer in recent years. 

The company linked that timeline to faster gains in quantum hardware, better error correction, and new estimates on how quickly current encryption could become vulnerable.

Google said the industry should move sooner rather than later as quantum computing advances continue. The company stated that current cryptographic standards used for encryption and digital signatures will not remain safe forever.

In its update, Google said, 

”Quantum computers will pose a threat to current cryptographic standards.” 

It also said post-quantum migration is needed so users can continue to rely on secure authentication services across its products.

The 2029 timeline marks the first time Google has attached a clear migration target to its post-quantum work. That date arrives earlier than some estimates for Q-Day, the point when quantum machines could break widely used public-key encryption.

Google said it wants to set a public example for other companies and institutions. The company added, ”It’s our responsibility to lead by example and share an ambitious timeline,” while calling for wider action across the industry.

Moreover, the push toward quantum-safe systems is also gaining attention in crypto. The Ethereum Foundation launched a Post-Quantum Ethereum resource hub this week and said it wants protocol-level protections in place by 2029.

Ethereum’s plan focuses on securing the network against future quantum threats, with execution-layer work expected later. The effort reflects broader concern over how blockchains that rely on existing cryptographic systems may need upgrades over time.

Bitcoin and Solana show different approaches

Solana developers introduced a quantum-resistant vault in January 2025. The design uses hash-based signatures and creates a new key during each transaction, but users must move funds into special Winternitz vaults because the feature does not upgrade the full network.

Bitcoin developers remain divided on timing and need. Blockstream chief executive Adam Back said quantum risks are overstated and that action is not needed for decades, while Ethan Heilman and other researchers backed BIP-360, a proposal that would add a new output type to reduce short-exposure quantum risks.