Microsoft has announced a significant advance in the field of quantum computing. They have developed a quantum chip called "Majorana 1", based on a "new state of matter". This advancement promises to change the game in terms of the ability to store quantum information more stably than traditional qubits. This technology could revolutionize various fields, from medicine to cybersecurity, within five to ten years if it successfully scales.
In simple terms, this new advancement means that a method has been found to make qubits much more resistant to errors. Although some physicists are skeptical and believe that more demonstration is needed, Microsoft has decided to bet on this revolutionary approach. If they manage to put this into practice, they could surpass their competitors and lead the next technological revolution.
This "new state of matter" is not about a new chemical element, but rather a special phase that only exists under extreme conditions. Microsoft bets that this advancement will accelerate the arrival of quantum computing in "years, not decades". The idea is that these Majorana fermions will allow for greater stability of information compared to traditional qubits.
Despite Microsoft making significant progress, there is still a long way to go to achieve a fully functional quantum computer. Other companies like Google and IBM are also working in this field with different approaches. Quantum computing promises to accelerate innovation in fields such as medicine, advanced materials, and market optimization.
It is important to highlight that for quantum computing to have a real impact, around a million qubits functioning in synchronization are needed. Currently, Microsoft has managed to create only eight. There are different approaches, such as Google's superconducting qubits and IBM's trapped-ion qubits. The race to lead this technological field is just beginning, and the potential of quantum computing is overwhelming in terms of its impact on society.
