This artical is interesting not because Quantum computers will be faster smaller versions of what we already have. But that they will be able to compute the vast space between Zero (0) and one (1).
Today’s computers work by manipulating bits that exist as either 0s or 1s. What makes quantum computing so powerful is that quantum bits (or qubits) have an infinite choice of values,
Scientific breakthrough a step toward quantum computing from PhysOrg.com
Light is the solution. It’s also the problem. That’s the paradox HP Labs’ Quantum Information Processing Group is beginning to unravel with its research into optical quantum computing. The group has been investigating ways to use photons, or light particles, for information processing, rather than the electrons used in digital electronic computers today. Their work holds promise for someday developing faster, more powerful and more secure computer networks.