The concept of quantum computing has long captured imaginations, promising exponential speedups in solving complex problems compared to classical computers. However, despite strides by IBM, Google, and others in quantum hardware development, practical applications have remained elusive. Microsoft and Quantinuum’s recent announcement signals a potential breakthrough, boasting the creation of the most error-free quantum computing system to date.
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Unlike classical computers, which operate on binary bits, quantum computers utilize qubits, capable of existing in multiple states simultaneously. Yet, qubits are notoriously error-prone, hindering the practicality of current quantum systems, known as Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) computers.
Microsoft’s innovative approach involves grouping physical qubits into virtual qubits, enabling error diagnostics and correction without qubit destruction. Leveraging Quantinuum’s hardware, this methodology achieved error rates 800 times better than relying solely on physical qubits, completing over 14,000 experiments flawlessly.
Jason Zander, EVP of Microsoft’s Strategic Missions and Technologies, envisions this advancement propelling quantum computing to “Level 2 Resilient,” suitable for practical applications. Zander emphasizes the need for fault-tolerant quantum computing to unlock solutions to previously intractable problems.
Aram Harrow, a quantum physics professor at MIT, lauds Microsoft’s achievement, highlighting the impressive error rates and control of the Quantinuum system. He anticipates further improvements as they scale up, offering promising prospects for quantum computing’s future.
Microsoft plans to offer access to its reliable quantum computing through Azure Quantum Elements, aiming to democratize quantum technology. The ultimate goal is Level 3 quantum supercomputing, capable of addressing complex issues like climate change and drug research. Although the timeline for achieving this milestone remains uncertain, each advancement brings us closer to practical quantum computing.
While acknowledging the long road ahead, Professor Harrow emphasizes the significance of this progress for the hardware platform. Alongside advancements in other quantum platforms, such as neutral atoms, cold atom technologies demonstrate promising performance relative to superconducting qubit competitors.
