Unlike traditional computing, which uses binary bits, quantum computing uses quantum bits, or “qubits,” which allow for the simultaneous processing of vast amounts of data, much faster than traditional computers. It has the potential to solve complex problems.
In a major step forward in quantum computing, Microsoft and Quantinuum have unveiled the most reliable logical qubit to date, with an error rate 800 times lower than physical qubits.
This breakthrough includes running more than 14,000 individual experiments without a single error, potentially making quantum computing a viable technology in a variety of industries. there is.
Azure Quantum Element Platform
Microsoft says the success of this demonstration was made possible by applying an innovative qubit virtualization system (combined with error diagnosis and correction) to Quantinuum's ion trap hardware. “This will ultimately move us from the current Noisy Intermediate Scale Quantum (NISQ) level to Level 2 resilient quantum computing,” said Jason Zander, vice president of strategic mission and technology at Microsoft. You can do that.”
The potential for this advancement is huge. Zander said: “Organizations will begin to realize the scientific benefits if they have a hybrid supercomputer with 100 trusted logical qubits, while the commercial benefits of getting closer to 1,000 trusted logical qubits. will be obtained.”
Quantum computing holds great promise in solving some of society's toughest challenges, including climate change, food shortages, and the energy crisis. These problems often boil down to complex chemistry and materials science problems. These problems are difficult to handle with classical computing, but are much easier to manage with quantum computers.
Microsoft says the challenge now is to continue to improve the fidelity of qubits and enable fault-tolerant quantum computing. This includes a transition to reliable logical qubits. This is achieved by merging multiple physical qubits to protect them from noise and maintain resilient computation.
The potential of this technology is enormous, but its widespread use will depend on its accessibility and cost-effectiveness. But for now, Microsoft and Quantinuum's breakthrough represents an important step toward making quantum computing a reality.