Controversy erupts over claims Microsoft invented a new state of matter

Microsoft announced a new state of matter called Majorana zero mode that could be used to build a quantum computer last month .

Some physicists are skeptical of Microsoft ’s claim that this is a “breakthrough in quantum computing” Microsoft has a history of similar claims from the company being disputed and rescinded.

Qubits are subject to external noise from the environment that can affect their performance.

Microsoft is taking a different approach to quantum computing by trying to develop a topological qubit, which has the ability to store information in multiple places at once.

A general-purpose computer would require billions of qubits, so these approaches are still a far cry from having practical applications.

Some are concerned that the back and forth on the topic within the field could cast a shadow on future developments in topological quantum computing.

“I just wish they were a bit more careful with their claims because I fear that if they don't measure up to what they are saying, there might be a backlash at some point where people say, You promised us all these fancy things and where are they now?’.