Microsoft Topological Quantum Computer Explained: Majorana 2 Chip and the Future of Quantum Computing
Topological Quantum Computer by Microsoft: Majorana 2, Quantum Breakthroughs, and Future Steps
For many years, quantum computing was seen as an exciting area of science and technology development. Every big company tries to develop a powerful quantum computer capable of solving tasks beyond the capabilities of any supercomputer existing at the moment. Microsoft took a completely different approach among such companies.
Instead of taking the standard route, Microsoft decided to develop the topological quantum computing approach. It might be more robust in the future and help create a more powerful computer than we have at the moment.
But what exactly does Microsoft create? What does the buzzword 'Majorana' mean? Why do some researchers still doubt its effectiveness?
Let's clarify everything in simple words
What Is Quantum Computing?
First, to learn about Microsoft's project, it is important to know how quantum computing differs from conventional computing.
Your personal computer or smartphone functions using bits. There are two states for a bit – it is either 0 or 1.
A quantum computer uses qubits. Qubits differ from bits in that they can express multiple states at once. It makes some calculations significantly quicker on a quantum computer.
Imagine the difference as follows.
A conventional computer goes down one path after another.
A quantum computer is able to go down multiple paths at once, thus arriving at an answer.
It does not mean that quantum computers will make your laptop obsolete. Quantum computers are meant to solve extremely complicated problems which would take millions of years to solve for modern computers.
Why Quantum Computers Are Important
Scientists think quantum computers might revolutionise a lot of industries.
They might find use in the following areas:
- Developing new drugs
- Designing new materials
- Battery efficiency increase
- Traffic and distribution optimisation
- Complex mathematical calculations
- Encryption breaking or development
Such are the tasks that modern computer technology cannot solve due to the large number of options to be calculated.
Microsoft's Unique Approach
Various organizations like Google and IBM develop quantum computers employing regular kinds of qubits.
Microsoft takes another path.
The company believes that topological qubits will be used in future quantum computers.
Why?
Since current qubits are rather sensitive.
Any small vibration, electrical interference, or temperature variations may cause errors.
Thus, quantum computers are challenging not only to build but also to scale up.
That is why Microsoft aims at solving this problem creating robust qubits.
Thus, in case of success, there will be fewer errors and more reliable quantum computers.
Majorana particle – The Enigma
Another reason which contributes greatly to the popularity of this project is the Majorana particle.
This unique particle has been predicted by an Italian physicist Ettore Majorana many decades ago.
It is thought that these particles possess certain features that may protect quantum information from errors.
According to Microsoft, it managed to produce and control the conditions under which these particles exist.
In case this claim is proved scientifically, it will be one of the greatest achievements in modern computing history.
However, it is here that the controversy starts.
Introducing: Microsoft’s Majorana 2 Chip
Recently, Microsoft has unveiled the next generation of its quantum processor dubbed as the Majorana 2.
There are currently 12 topological qubits in the chip.
Despite seeming insignificant compared to the billions of transistors in processors, quantum computing functions completely differently.
The point is not to increase the number of qubits at all costs.
It is to produce correct, accurate, and stable qubits.
Microsoft claims that its new chip outperforms the previous model and is a better platform for further developments.
Each advance is getting scientists closer to creating a workable quantum computer.
The Controversy Explained: Why Do Scientists Argue?
Scientists are eager to discuss any findings.
Microsoft may be proud of its findings, but some experts disagree with it.
Namely, there are physicists who question the correctness of the experiment and the presence of Majorana particles.
For others, additional testing is required for confirmation of the claims.
It is common practice in science.
Many discoveries in history underwent rigorous debate until they were acknowledged.
Microsoft continues developing research and technology while collaborating with the rest of the scientific world.
Time and additional data will resolve the issue.
Colder Than Outer Space
One of the most surprising aspects of quantum computers is their operating temperature.
Quantum computer chips can't operate at room temperature.
They require an environment which is even colder than outer space.
The refrigeration system cools them down to almost absolute zero.
At these temperatures, the quantum states become stable enough for computation.
These complex refrigerators are large, costly and specialized making current quantum computers very unlike the PCs we use in our daily life.
Microsoft Long Term Plan
The current Majorana 2 chip has 12 qubits.
This doesn't seem like much at first glance, however, Microsoft has much more ambitious plans.
The company plans to scale the number of qubits up to:
- Tens
- Hundreds
- Thousands
- Finally, millions
Scaling up to larger systems while keeping it reliable is one of the hardest tasks in quantum computing.
If they succeed, future quantum computers will be able to help tackle the challenges that science cannot solve right now.
The company expects that commercially feasible quantum computers may become available in the following years; however, most experts are sure that there will be some more time until they gain wide acceptance.
Will Quantum Computers Replace Our Laptops?
Most likely not.
Quantum computers are meant to perform specific jobs.
Today’s computers are perfect for searching the Internet, watching videos on YouTube, editing pictures, playing video games, or typing documents.
Quantum computers will probably operate together with regular computers.
Cloud technologies will enable scientists and businesses to have remote access to quantum computers as and when they need supercomputing capabilities.
Final Words
Microsoft’s quest into topological quantum computing is among the most interesting technology stories nowadays.
The company’s emphasis on topological qubits and Majorana particles makes it unique against other companies.
While many doubts and scientific discussions still exist, the achievements already made demonstrate how fast things can develop in this field.
If the technology proves itself, quantum computers will revolutionize such industries as medicine, science, engineering, cyber-security, and others.
Currently, we are observing the first few episodes of an event that may mark one of the most revolutionary events in computing since the advent of computers as we know them today.
How do you feel about Microsoft’s strategy regarding quantum computing? Do you think topological qubits represent the future of quantum computing? Comment down your opinions in the comments section below.
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