Definition: topological quantum chip

A quantum computer qubit that is much more stable than current qubit designs, which are very error prone. Based on the theory of Italian physicist Ettore Majorana in the 1930s, the topological design uses a thin nanowire to hold the qubit. The nanowire is much less susceptible to outside interference than current qubit designs, and qubit stability is the primary goal of quantum computer designers.

The topological approach may change the rules of the game, because if qubit stability is truly solved, large quantum computers can be readily built, and quantum computing will take a major leap forward. See quantum coherence, quantum computer and qubit.

Microsoft's Majorana 1

Introduced in 2025, this 8-qubit quantum computer chip uses topological qubits. Using superconducting nanowires coupled to digital switches at both ends, preliminary results are encouraging. If this chip fulfills its promise, it may be the breakthrough quantum scientists have been dreaming of. Stay tuned! (Image courtesy of Microsoft Corporation.)