MICROSOFT
Microsoft could speed up the arrival of quantum computing faster than many expected.
The company has built a new chip using the world’s first topoconductor, a discovery that might cut development time from decades to just a few years.
What’s the breakthrough?
Unlike solids, liquids, or gases, this technology creates a unique quantum state, making hardware more stable and reliable.
The new chip allows quantum systems to shrink down to fit on a device smaller than your hand.
Microsoft says its breakthrough could allow quantum systems to scale up to a million qubits - the tiny units that let quantum computers handle huge amounts of data far faster than today’s computers.
Experts weigh in
Physicists see the potential but remain cautious. Paul Stevenson from the University of Surrey believes Microsoft could be a serious player, though progress from here will be tough.
George Booth from King’s College London calls the research impressive but thinks its true value will only be clear with time.
Why does it matter?
If Microsoft’s plan works, quantum computing could unlock huge possibilities:
Break down microplastics into safe materials
Develop self-healing materials for construction, manufacturing, or healthcare
Solve tricky logistics and supply chain challenges
Crack advanced encryption codes faster than ever
The U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has chosen Microsoft’s technology as one of two main pathways to develop a working quantum computer by 2033.
While competitors like Google have moved faster, Microsoft is playing the long game.
Its focus is on topological qubits, which are more resistant to interference.
These qubits rely on Majorana fermions (read it twice), particles that had never been made before and need magnetic fields and superconductors to exist.
Quantum computing isn’t here yet, but Microsoft’s latest breakthrough shows the race is picking up speed.
Topoconductor sounds like it belongs in the MCU, we know you thought so too.