Microsoft has marked a significant milestone in quantum computing, demonstrating advancements that might lead to the development of the most reliable quantum computer yet. At the core of this breakthrough is the establishment of a new measure of performance known as reliable Quantum Operations Per Second (rQOPS), which assesses the number of reliable operations a quantum computer can execute per second. This new metric signifies an essential step toward realizing quantum supercomputers capable of solving problems beyond the reach of today’s most powerful classical computers.
The key to achieving such reliability in quantum computing is the creation of stable logical qubits from multiple physical qubits, which in turn relies on reducing the error rate of quantum operations to a remarkably low level. Microsoft’s recent success in engineering a device that can induce a topological phase of matter, characterized by Majorana Zero Modes, is a pivotal achievement in this journey. This development not only showcases Microsoft’s leading-edge work in quantum materials and engineering but also paves the way for the creation of topological qubits, which are expected to be smaller, faster, and less susceptible to information loss than other qubit types currently under development.
Microsoft’s approach focuses on the long-term goal of scaling quantum computing to a level where it can tackle real-world problems. The company envisions a quantum machine capable of working in tandem with classical computing resources to offer unprecedented computational capabilities. Such advancements could revolutionize various fields, enabling the rapid development of new materials, enhancing drug discovery, and significantly improving energy efficiency.
At the hardware level, Microsoft has engineered innovative solutions to manage and control thousands of qubits at cryogenic temperatures. This includes pioneering chips that facilitate communication within a quantum computer while maintaining a stable, cold environment essential for quantum operations. These technical advancements help address significant challenges in scaling quantum systems
However, the path to realizing a practical quantum supercomputer is fraught with challenges, primarily due to the inherently fragile nature of quantum states which are easily disrupted by environmental noise. Microsoft’s strategy involves leveraging the topological qubits’ inherent error protection, derived from the unique properties of Majorana zero modes, to mitigate these challenges. This innovative approach promises a quantum computer that is not only powerful but also reliable and scalable, making it a potentially transformative tool for scientific and commercial applications alike
