The Week in Quantum Computing - February 24th - Majonara & Microsoft, IonQ, Infleqtion, Qureca, China
Issue #223
Quick Recap
QURECA and IMPACTIFI formed a strategic partnership to bridge the quantum workforce gap. Meanwhile, Gil Kalal summarizes the skepticism from Robert Alicki, Michel Dyakonov, Leonid Levin, and Oded Goldreich on error-correction among other topics. Infleqtion debuted a 16×16 neutral atom array for the SQALE project, while neutral-atom efforts by competitors Pasqal, QuEra, Atom Computing and planqc keep scaling. QED-C announced cryogenics breakthroughs to cut decoherence. China’s “Origin Wukong” quantum machine showcases global momentum but with some skepticism on the real capabilities of their systems.
But the true event from last week was Microsoft’s announcement of the first in a lifetime Majorana qubit. Or is that so? The Quantum pirate has collected a curated set of links and comments about that. But also the TL;DR to know the key. Why it matters, is it changing the tides on the quantum race and most importantly, why do donuts have holes?
On Majorana’s Qubit
Microsoft has recently unveiled its groundbreaking quantum computing chip, the Majorana 1. This chip represents a significant leap in quantum technology, leveraging a novel material known as a topological superconductor to create qubits that utilize Majorana zero modes (MZMs). These quasiparticles, theorized in 1937, have now been reliably harnessed for the first time. The Majorana 1 chip is designed to scale towards a million-qubit processor, potentially tackling complex industrial challenges. This development is seen as a crucial step towards practical, fault-tolerant quantum computing, which has been a major hurdle in the field.
In short:
Majorana based qubits could potentially eliminate a lot of the challenges in measurement, control and error correction all other types of qubits have.
That is why, for a long time it as “elDorado” of quantum, with Microsoft betting heavily on that technology. While building Azure quantum and partnering with other hardware companies (and investing in others, in a good way of hedging bets).
Majorana qubits have been very elusive. Microsoft published a paper a few years ago that had to be retracted after the community reviewed it.
Now, they have finally done it. Well, not quite. It is a huge milestone, but they are in the same place some other quantum hardware companies were 5 years ago. So, lot’s of work to do.
Why It Matters
The introduction of the Majorana 1 chip is a breakthrough for several reasons:
Scalability: The chip's design allows for the integration of up to a million qubits on a single processor, a significant increase from current quantum processors.
Reliability: By using topological qubits, the Majorana 1 chip reduces the need for extensive error correction, making quantum computers more reliable and practical for real-world applications.
Industrial Impact: Microsoft claims that this chip will enable quantum computers to solve meaningful, industrial-scale problems in years, not decades.
If successful, this could revolutionize quantum computing, positioning Microsoft as a leader. Yet, with ongoing competition and the need for further validation, its game-changing status is uncertain, keeping Microsoft in a strong but not definitive lead.
Skeptical View
Despite the excitement surrounding the Majorana 1 chip, there are reasons to be cautious:
Unproven Technology: While the theoretical benefits of topological qubits are well-documented, their practical implementation is still in its early stages. There is a significant gap between laboratory success and real-world application.
Competition: Other companies have already very well defined roadmaps and have been working on the scalability of their systems (with more or less success). Neutral atoms had their year in 2024, and superconducting qubits are still in the pole position. PsiQuantum is building photonic datacenters, etc. Microsoft is not at the very end of the race.
Market Hype: The announcement of the Majorana 1 chip has generated considerable media attention, which can sometimes lead to inflated expectations. It is essential to differentiate between genuine breakthroughs and marketing hype.
Reactions to Microsoft's Majorana1 Announcement
The announcement has generated significant interest and debate within the scientific and technological communities.
Supportive Reactions
Microsoft's Claims: The company asserts that Majorana1, built with a breakthrough material called a topoconductor (a combination of indium arsenide and aluminum forming a topological superconductor), can create more reliable and scalable qubits. This is detailed in their announcement, where they claim the chip can fit a million qubits on a single palm-sized chip, enabling transformative solutions like breaking down microplastics or developing self-healing materials (Microsoft’s Majorana 1 chip carves new path for quantum computing). They published a paper in Nature to support these claims, marking peer-reviewed confirmation of creating and measuring Majorana particles, which are crucial for robust quantum information protection.
Technical Fellow Statements: Chetan Nayak, a Microsoft technical fellow, emphasized in a blog post that the architecture offers a clear path to a million qubits, stating, "A million-qubit quantum computer isn't just a milestone -- it's a gateway to solving some of the world's most difficult problems" (Microsoft unveils quantum chip Majorana 1 for future advances | TechTarget). This highlights the potential for addressing challenges in chemistry, materials science, and more.
Positive Media Coverage: Various tech and science news outlets, such as MIT Technology Review and Forbes, have covered the announcement positively, noting the potential of topological qubits to overcome error rates, a major hurdle in quantum computing (A new Microsoft chip could lead to more stable quantum computers | MIT Technology Review, Microsoft’s Majorana 1: A Step Closer To Quantum Computing Singularity). These articles suggest that Microsoft's approach could reduce the overhead of quantum error correction by tenfold, a critical leap toward practicality.
Skeptical Reactions
Despite the optimism, several experts and researchers have expressed doubts, focusing on the lack of evidence and past controversies:
John Preskill's Skepticism: Leading theoretical physicist John Preskill has questioned the announcement, stating there is "no publicly available evidence" to back up Microsoft's claims about the chip's performance (Microsoft’s quantum computing breakthrough questioned by experts). This skepticism centers on the absence of detailed performance data, making it difficult to verify the claimed scalability and error resistance.
Previous Doubts from Basel Researchers: Researchers at the University of Basel have previously challenged Microsoft's findings on Majorana particles, particularly in 2023, suggesting that earlier results could be explained by impurities in nanowires rather than the presence of Majorana particles (Scepticism about Microsoft results | University of Basel). This history of doubt casts a shadow over the current claims, especially given the reliance on similar principles.
Other Expert Concerns: Additional experts, such as Daniel Loss from the University of Basel and Georgios Katsaros from the Institute of Science and Technology Austria, have criticized the lack of detailed evidence in the announcement, with Loss questioning why Microsoft did not wait for more material for a separate publication (Microsoft Claims Quantum-Computing Breakthrough—but Some Physicists Are Skeptical | Scientific American). Katsaros echoed this, noting, "Without seeing the extra data from the qubit operation, there is not much one can comment."
Key Questions
Is this announcement relevant? Yes, it marks a significant technological advancement.
Does this announcement reduce the timelines for useful quantum computing? Probably not. Practical challenges remain.
Is this announcement hype? There is a mix of genuine breakthrough and media hype, but generally the media has taken it on the hype side, same as they did with Google. The difference from the paper to the media release has been massive.
Does this announcement put Microsoft at the forefront of quantum computing? It strengthens their position, but competition is still strong. Short answer: No.
The Press Release:
The Nature paper review:
The full review on the paper can be found here. But here’s the summary:
Topological Gap Protocol Doubts
Some reviewers question whether the TGP reliably identifies a “true topological phase.” Simulations show Andreev states can also pass TGP, so it might not be conclusive.Overstated Claims About a Qubit
Multiple reviewers say the language sounds like they’ve definitively shown a qubit or Majoranas, even though they only present parity switches consistent with a near-zero mode.Possible Trivial Explanations
The reviewers want more rigorous exclusion of trivial low-energy states. If accidental localized subgap states can produce similar signals, then it’s not a slam dunk for Majoranas.Data Range & Reproducibility
Concern about whether the effect only appears in a tiny slice of gate/magnetic-field space. They want more parameter scans, more thorough evidence of consistent behavior, and clarity on how often the TGP-based approach yields a near-zero mode.Simplified Modeling
The authors’ “more complete” simulation still drops other subgap states. Reviewers say that ignoring all but a single “Majorana mode” might bias interpretations.
Is it a true milestone for quantum?
It’s a real technical milestone—interferometric, time-resolved measurements of low-energy states in a device designed for topological quantum computing is novel and impressive. But in terms of “this changes quantum computing forever,” the general vibe is: “We’re closer, but the final, bulletproof evidence of a topological qubit isn’t here yet.” Still, it’s a big step forward on the engineering side and might enable future breakthroughs like fusion-rule tests or braiding.
The Week in Quantum Computing
QURECA and IMPACTIFI Announce Strategic Partnership to Advance Quantum Training and Workforce Development
QURECA and IMPACTIFI have announced a strategic partnership to drive quantum training and workforce development in 2025. “By combining our expertise, QURECA and IMPACTIFI aim to accelerate quantum technology adoption and empower organizations,” said Dr. Araceli Venegas-Gomez, QURECA’s CEO. Teresa Cusse of IMPACTIFI emphasized “driving technological advancement by equipping businesses and professionals with the tools they need.” Their joint efforts will include targeted training, awareness webinars, and events across various industries.
https://www.qureca.com/qureca-mpactifi-partnership/
Robert Alicki, Michel Dyakonov, Leonid Levin, Oded Goldreich, and Others: A Summary of Some Skeptical Views On Quantum Computing.
Robert Alicki, Michel Dyakonov, Leonid Levin, and Oded Goldreich question quantum computing’s feasibility, criticizing error-correction and the threshold theorem. Alicki linked Heisenberg’s energy-time uncertainty to computational limits, branded fault-tolerant assumptions “physically unrealistic,” and argued thermodynamics prevents preserving large-scale quantum states. He stated in 2019, “I still believe I have strong arguments against fault-tolerance in QC,” calling it “a new type of postmodern science based on hype.” Landauer and Unruh’s early 1990s doubts inspire Haroche and Raimond’s 1996 “Quantum computing: dream or nightmare?” underscoring persistent skepticism. In 2025, this debate drives deeper exploration of quantum hardware and raises fresh vigilance about theoretical underpinnings.
Infleqtion Demonstrates Largest Neutral Atom Array in UK, Paving Way for Scalable Quantum Computing
Infleqtion unveiled a 16×16 neutral atom array, described as “the largest reported array of its kind” in the SQALE project at Oxford. This milestone signals growing confidence in neutral-atom architectures crucial for quantum computing. By methodically arranging 256 individual atoms, Infleqtion aims to reduce error rates and enhance parallel processing. “We are paving the way for scalable quantum computing,” declares Infleqtion’s press release, underscoring the project’s decisive step toward fault-tolerant hardware. Each stabilized atom represents a leap in harnessing qubits for real-world applications as quantum technologies mature.
Neutral Atoms, The stunning rise of Quantum Computing’s dark horse
In 2025, neutral atom quantum computing has swiftly emerged from niche research to a mainstream approach. “The rise of neutral atom quantum computing over the last decade-and-a-half has been nothing short of remarkable…,” says Nobel Laureate Dr Alain Aspect. Big leaps in scalability have yielded 1,000+ qubit arrays. The white paper by Dylan Barry for Quantonation includes insights from Dr Mark Saffman and Dr Immanuel Bloch, highlighting the platform’s unique ability to scale qubits without sacrificing coherence. Pasqal, QuEra, Atom Computing, planqc, and Infleqtion capitalize on these advances for optimization, simulation, and quantum chemistry. Technical challenges in laser stability and vacuum systems remain, yet this synergy of stability and scalability signals a groundbreaking shift in quantum innovation.
The Quantum Panic
Last october, Shanghai University researchers stunned cryptographers by announcing a successful quantum-based attack on three encryption algorithms using a D-Wave system. “This marks the first practical attack on multiple full-scale SPN structure symmetric cipher algorithms using a real quantum computer,” they wrote in the Chinese Journal of Computers. Rachel Cheung detailed how this finding prompted U.S. concerns about China’s accelerating quantum capabilities. Senator Tom Cotton cautioned that Beijing aims to surpass American technology and push for immediate defenses. The research was in the end not what it seemed. And yet, there is no indication that China is anywhere close to achieving that. In fact, China may be far behind that what many thought.
https://www.thewirechina.com/2025/02/16/the-quantum-panic-china-us/
Quantum Computing Stocks: China Claims Milestone For 'Origin Wukong' Machine
In 2025, China’s claim of a milestone for the “Origin Wukong” quantum computing machine emerges as the DeepSeek-driven sell-off in AI stocks cools. This announcement underscores ongoing advances in quantum computing, a field that could boost future innovations and potentially affect quantum computing stocks. “Origin Wukong” highlights China’s commitment to next-generation research, sparking attention from investors and technologists alike. Observers see these developments as an inflection point for broader quantum applications, with global players closely monitoring potential breakthroughs. China’s move resonates in an era increasingly defined by accelerated technological shifts.
QED-C® Announces Member Advancements in Cryogenics for Quantum Technology
QED-C’s latest announcement spotlights breakthroughs in cryogenics research by its member organizations, aiming to stabilize and scale quantum computing in 2025. Representing a collaboration of industry, academia, and government, QED-C noted that advanced cryogenic tools can cut qubit decoherence, driving better fidelity. “Our members are achieving tangible progress in cooling technologies, a critical step in building reliable quantum systems,” said QED-C’s Executive Director, Celia Merzbacher. These advancements point to safer, more efficient hardware development, but industry experts advise caution until further testing confirms real-world performance gains.
Microsoft’s Majorana 1 chip carves new path for quantum computing
Microsoft’s new Majorana 1 chip, introduced last week, harnesses a Topological Core to realize faster, more stable qubits. Scientists, including Chetan Nayak (“We took a step back…”) and Matthias Troyer (“From the start…”) assert that this topoconductor-based breakthrough paves a route to a million-qubit quantum computer. The company’s collaboration with DARPA under the US2QC program underscores its progress in forging a utility-scale quantum system. The chip’s error-resistant hardware design and digital control—achieved by detecting and controlling Majorana particles—promise to tackle chemistry and materials problems beyond classical computing. As quantum moves closer to commercial-scale impact, Microsoft’s Majorana 1 highlights a significant shift from theoretical possibility to tangible innovation in quantum computing this year.
The paper: Interferometric single-shot parity measurement in InAsAl hybrid devices
Microsoft Azure Quantum researchers, including Morteza Aghaee, showcased an interferometric single-shot parity measurement in InAs–Al hybrid devices, pivotal for measurement-only topological quantum computation. They reported a quantum capacitance shift up to 1 fF, a flux-h/2e periodic signal with SNR of 1 in 3.6 μs, and dwell times exceeding 1 ms at ~2 T. “The large capacitance shift and long poisoning time enable a parity measurement with an assignment error probability of 1%,” the authors explain. This demonstration highlights a tool to probe Majorana zero modes for robust qubit readout, offering single-μeV energy resolution. It underscores advancing parity-based readouts as a critical milestone for topological quantum computing.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-024-08445-2
Roadmap to fault tolerant quantum computation using topological qubit arrays
David Aasen and 180 co-authors present a four-stage blueprint for fault-tolerant quantum computing with topologically protected Majorana-based qubits in 2025. “We describe a concrete device roadmap,” they write, detailing measurement-based braiding, quantum error detection, and eventually lattice surgery on topological qubit arrays. The design relies on superconductor-semiconductor heterostructures and rapid single-shot readouts for improved stability. This approach could herald more robust architectures compared to traditional qubits, aiming for practical error correction and utility-scale systems. Their stepwise strategy, supported by the Simons Foundation and others, reaffirms an accelerating push toward real-world fault-tolerant quantum devices.
https://arxiv.org/abs/2502.12252
Majorana 1 Explained: The Path to a Million Qubits
Aaronson's FAQ on Microsoft’s topological qubit thing
Microsoft’s 2025 announcement of a working topological qubit—allegedly building on Alexei Kitaev and Michael Freedman’s late-1990s theories—sparked cautious optimism from experts like Scott Aaronson. Chetan Nayak declared, “We now have a topological qubit that’s behaving fully as a qubit; how much more do people want?” This approach aims to leverage nonabelian anyons for resilience against decoherence, potentially leapfrogging existing superconducting and trapped-ion systems if it achieves higher reliability. Nature published Microsoft’s claims, though peer acceptance remains pending, recalling a 2018 retraction on Majorana zero modes. Companies like Quantinuum and Nokia Bell Labs also pursue topological qubit research, underscoring broad interest in stabilizing quantum computation. Should the validation persist, it might herald a new era of quantum robustness.
https://scottaaronson.blog/?p=8669
World's First Quantum-Secured Crypto Cold Wallet Powered by Quantum eMotion
Krown Technologies, in collaboration with Quantum eMotion, unveils Excalibur—the claimed first quantum-secured crypto cold wallet of 2025. The device integrates quantum-based encryption, potentially shielding digital assets from emerging quantum threats. By harnessing Quantum eMotion’s hardware, Excalibur aims to generate true random keys, a critical component for robust security in an era where quantum computers could challenge classical cryptography. In a rapidly advancing quantum landscape, employing quantum-resistant measures underscores a growing commitment to future-proofing digital asset protection.
IonQ Announces Innovations in Compact, Room-Temperature Quantum Computing through Novel Extreme High Vacuum (XHV) Technology
In 2025, IonQ, recognized for its quantum computing and networking capabilities, has unveiled a next-generation ion trap vacuum package prototype harnessing Extreme High Vacuum (XHV) technology. This development promises more compact, room-temperature quantum systems, a stark contrast to the traditionally bulky cryogenic setups. According to IonQ, miniaturizing the hardware might propel broader adoption of quantum solutions by making them easier to deploy. The prototype’s success hinges on maintaining stable ion traps at room temperature while ensuring precise qubit control.
DARPA plans major expansion of quantum computing push next month
In 2025, DARPA is poised to dramatically expand quantum computing research via its Quantum Benchmarking Initiative (QBI). Its leader, a self-proclaimed “quantum skeptic,” told Breaking Defense he is “pleasantly surprised” by how many corporate quantum proposals appear achievable. Slated for announcement within weeks, this expansion aims to bridge hype and reality by introducing rigorous benchmarks and fostering real-world applications. As companies strive to surpass theoretical milestones, DARPA’s broader focus could accelerate global collaboration and competition in a technology once deemed too speculative to fund.