Unlike traditional computers that rely on bits of information that can be in one of two states (1 or 0), quantum computers manipulate qubits, or units of information tucked inside subatomic particles. That means, they follow the wacky laws of quantum mechanics and so can be in two states at once. This ability allows quantum computers to theoretically store exponentially more information than your everyday laptop. Live Science is here to dissect the latest achievements and discoveries in this bizarre quantum world of computing.
Latest about quantum computers
World Quantum Day 2025: What is quantum superposition?
Quantum superposition is a phenomenon in which a tiny particle can be in two states at the same time — but only if it is not being directly observed.
Physicists create hottest Schrödinger's cat ever in quantum breakthrough
Physicists have replicated the famous Schrödinger's cat experiment at hotter temperatures than ever before. The breakthrough is a small but significant step toward quantum computers that can work at normal temperatures.
Quantum computing breakthrough could make 'noise' — forces that disrupt calculations — a thing of the past
Useful quantum networks are hobbled by the problem of decoherence from environmental "noise." But a new breakthrough could change that.
MIT 'remote entanglement' discovery could lead to scalable 'quantum supercomputers'
A new device enables remote entanglement, allowing distant quantum processors to communicate with one another with reduced error rates.
Government scientists discover new state of matter that's 'half ice, half fire'
U.S. government scientists have developed a new phase of matter dubbed 'half ice, half fire,' which unites opposing electron spins in a unique magnet.
China achieves quantum supremacy claim with new chip 1 quadrillion times faster than the most powerful supercomputers
This new superconducting prototype quantum processor achieved benchmarking results to rival Google's new Willow QPU.
World's 1st modular quantum computer that can operate at room temperature goes online
Scientists have built the first networked quantum computer using photons, demonstrating that room-temperature modules can be connected and scaled up.
Scientists discover simpler way to achieve Einstein's 'spooky action at a distance' thanks to AI breakthrough — bringing quantum internet closer to reality
AI has helped physicists discover a simpler way of achieving quantum entanglement. This finding could make it easier to develop quantum communication technologies.
AWS launches 'Ocelot' quantum processor — a chip inspired by Schrödinger's cat that corrects errors exponentially with scale
AWS's first-ever quantum chip uses "cat qubits" to reduce errors exponentially as more qubits are added to a system. Scientists say it will lead to scalable and efficient quantum computers.
Quantum simulation breakthrough will lead to 'discoveries impossible in today's fastest supercomputers,' Google scientists claim
By combining digital and analog quantum simulation into a new hybrid approach, scientists have already started to make fresh scientific discoveries using quantum computers.
