Microsoft and Atom Computing will launch a commercially available quantum computer next year, after a major technological breakthrough.
“We are co-designing and building the world’s most powerful quantum machine,” said Krysta Svore, vice president of advanced quantum development for Microsoft.
The companies announced at the Microsoft Ignite conference today that they had entangled 24 logical qubits. Logical qubits are units of information used to run quantum algorithms, and this is the largest number of logical qubits managed to date.
“Entanglement enables quantum computers to implement various protocols and algorithms that are not possible with classical systems,” according to Microsoft. The process allows quantum computers to perform large numbers of calculations simultaneously.
Microsoft and Atom Computing will offer a commercially available quantum computer next year. Preorders began today ahead of delivery in 2025.
“This offering is a comprehensive scientific suite that combines logical qubits, cloud HPC, and advanced AI models that, together, enable exploration across multiple fields, including chemistry and materials science, while also providing opportunities for skilling and education,” Svore said of the computer.
“We are excited to continue our collaboration with Microsoft, which has already led to significant milestones in quantum computing,” said Atom Computing CEO Ben Bloom.
Microsoft Ignite will run from November 19-21. The company also announced new capabilities for its artificial intelligence assistant, Microsoft Copilot, and a new miniature PC.
Microsoft’s (NASDAQ: MSFT) share price closed at US$417.79 (A$639.34), up from the previous day’s $415.76. Its market cap is $3.11 trillion.