MIT scientists have achieved significant progress in quantum computing through the introduction of an innovative superconducting qubit design that substantially improves the precision of quantum operations. Quantum error correction plays a vital role in the practicality of quantum computing, and this development brings us closer to its realization. They utilize fluxonium qubits, which possess longer lifespans compared to conventional superconducting qubits, addressing a key challenge in quantum error correction.

The researchers have devised a unique coupling element connecting two fluxonium qubits, enabling them to execute logical operations (referred to as gates) with an unprecedented level of accuracy while mitigating background interference that could introduce errors. These advancements have resulted in two-qubit gates achieving accuracy rates exceeding 99.9% and single-qubit gates surpassing 99.99% accuracy.

This breakthrough is pivotal for the construction of large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computers, with plans to expand the system's capabilities by increasing the number of qubits. Furthermore, a quantum computing startup, Atlantic Quantum, has been established to apply this technology to commercial and industrial applications. While a fully functional quantum computer may still be a decade away, this research marks a significant stride forward in enhancing quantum computing capabilities.

Why does it matter?

This represents a substantial step forward in the development of quantum computing technology, which has the potential to revolutionize fields like cryptography, and optimization problems that are currently beyond the capabilities of classical computers. Quantum error correction is crucial for building practical, large-scale quantum computers. Achieving higher accuracy in quantum operations is a critical milestone in making error correction a reality, bringing us closer to stable and reliable quantum computing.