Microsoft Majorana 1 chip promises real quantum computing within years, not decades

Forward-looking: Microsoft has unveiled a new quantum chip called “Majorana 1” that claims will make scaled, real-world quantum computing a reality in just years rather than decades. It’s palm-sized and has a delightfully retro look yet Microsoft claims it will eventually pack more theoretical computing power than all the world’s current classical computers combined.

The Majorana 1 comes after nearly two decades of research. The big claims come thanks to Microsoft’s unique approach to the quantum problem. Scientists at the company have engineered a first-of-its-kind “topoconductor” material that they say exploits an exotic “topological” state of matter, bridging the gap between quantum physics and practical engineering.

Microsoft adds that this topological state enables smaller, faster, and more stable quantum bits (qubits). In fact, the company is so confident in the technology that it claims topoconductors and the new type of chip they enable provide a clear roadmap to scaling up to over one million qubits on a single chip – a key threshold for quantum supremacy over classical computers for real-world applications.

Microsoft also suggests that as semiconductor transistors revolutionized classical computing and microelectronics, these new topological qubit materials could kickstart an entire quantum industry.

Microsoft envisions its new invention enabling major advancements such as breaking down microplastics, designing self-healing construction materials, boosting soil fertility, and turbocharging AI to model and optimize every aspect of manufacturing, medicine, and more.

“Any company that makes anything could just design it perfectly the first time out,” boasts Matthias Troyer, a Microsoft technical fellow. “The quantum computer teaches the AI the language of nature so the AI can just tell you the recipe for what you want to make.”

It all sounds too good to be true, so the BBC decided to conduct a reality check and get some expert perspectives. Some have cautioned that key challenges remain before the new approach can be considered a breakthrough success.

“Until the next steps have been achieved, it is too soon to be anything more than cautiously optimistic,” stated quantum expert Professor Paul Stevenson of the University of Surrey.

The opinions weren’t all cynical, though. Professor Chris Heunen, a quantum programming expert at the University of Edinburgh, says that Microsoft’s roadmap is credible, and the next few years will show if this exciting vision pans out.

Microsoft isn’t alone in its pursuit of true quantum supremacy. Rivals like Google have produced a steady stream of announcements over the past few years – notably unveiling its “Willow” chip late last year. However, Microsoft is seemingly taking longer with its “topological approach,” which the company has described in its own words as a “high-risk, high-reward” strategy.

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