New Chip Means Quantum Computing In Years, Not Decades

Microsoft has unveiled Majorana 1, the world’s first quantum chip powered by a ‘Topological Core architecture’, which it claims could enable quantum computers to solve complex, industrial-scale problems within years rather than decades.

The Issue

The Majorana 1 chip could signify a pivotal shift in quantum computing development. Unlike conventional processors, which rely on classical bits (the familiar ones and zeroes of modern computing), quantum computers use qubits, i.e. quantum bits that can represent both states simultaneously. While this promises an exponential increase in processing power, qubits are notoriously difficult to stabilise and control due to environmental interference.