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Tue, 02 Jun 2026

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 Microsoft says new quantum chip 1,000 times more reliable than predecessor

The tech giant predicts it will have a quantum computer that can solve commercially useful problems by the end of the decade.
Microsoft has developed a new quantum chip called Majorana 2, which it claims is vastly more reliable than its previous version. According to Microsoft, the qubits on Majorana 2 can survive for an average of 20 seconds, compared to milliseconds in the first version. This represents an improvement of 1,000 times in performance. Microsoft says that this new chip paves the way for a quantum computer that can solve commercially useful problems within three years. The company's corporate vice president, Zulfi Alam, stated that they aim to have a quantum machine in 2029 that can solve problems that are currently too enormous for even the most powerful traditional computers. The new chip is based on Microsoft's approach to quantum computing known as "topological", which involves exploiting the properties of a quasi-particle called the Majorana. The company has spent 20 years developing this technology and has made significant progress in recent years. Some experts have expressed skepticism about Microsoft's claims, but others believe that they may be onto something. Paul Stevenson, a physics professor at the University of Surrey, stated that "Microsoft appears to have made a leap in their attempt to produce viable topological qubits." The new chip is still in its infancy and much work remains to be done before it can become a reality. However, Microsoft's progress has sparked excitement and hope for the potential of quantum computing to solve some of the world's most pressing problems. Microsoft's goal is to create a machine that can solve problems in areas such as climate change, medicine, and finance. The company believes that quantum computers could help to identify new materials and compounds that could be used to combat climate change, for example. However, there are still significant technical challenges to overcome before quantum computing can become a reality. One of the biggest challenges is keeping the qubits stable over long periods of time. Even small changes in temperature or vibration can affect them and cause errors. Microsoft's new chip is based on the same principles as its previous version but uses lead instead of aluminium as a superconductor, which has improved its performance. The company is also using artificial intelligence to try to improve and speed up its efforts. Despite the challenges ahead, Microsoft remains optimistic about its chances of success. Jason Zander, executive vice president of Microsoft Quantum and Discovery, stated that "We stand behind it 100%. We really look to scientific rigor."