In recent years, the concept of quantum computers capable of performing complex calculations much faster than traditional computers has generated significant interest. Companies like IBM and Google have been actively working on developing quantum technology, but so far these advancements have not been put into practical use.
However, a recent announcement from Microsoft and Quantinuum has brought a new perspective to the field. They have revealed the creation of the most accurate quantum computing system yet.
Unlike traditional computers that use bits, quantum computers operate using qubits, which can exist in a superposition of states. The main challenge with qubits is the high error rates, limiting their practical applications to research purposes.
Microsoft has succeeded in combining physical qubits into virtual ones on Quantinuum’s system, allowing for error correction without compromising the qubits. This has resulted in an 800-fold reduction in errors compared to using only physical qubits. The system has been able to perform over 14,000 experiments without any errors.
Jason Zander, Executive Vice President of Microsoft on Strategic Misses and Technologies, believes that this development could lead to “Level 2 Resilient” quantum calculations that are reliable for practical use.
The project’s objective is to move towards creating dependable logical qubits by combining multiple physical qubits into logical ones to safeguard against interference and ensure sustained computations.
Harvard Aram, a physics professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, emphasizes the significance of these achievements and the low error rates of the Quantinuum system, expressing optimism for further error reduction and scalability.
In the upcoming months, researchers will have the opportunity to explore reliable quantum computing from Microsoft through Azure Quantum Elements in an exclusive preview program.
In the future, Microsoft aims to achieve “Level 3” super quantum calculations capable of tackling highly complex tasks such as combating climate change and discovering new medications. While this goal remains distant,