Definition: topological quantum chip

A quantum computer processor that is more stable than previous 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 less susceptible to outside interference, 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 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 4x4 inch package holds an 8-qubit quantum computer using topological qubits with superconducting nanowires coupled to digital switches at both ends. Preliminary results are encouraging. The Majorana 2 was introduced in 2026. Stay tuned! (Image courtesy of Microsoft Corporation.)