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
What is quantum error correction (QEC)?
Quantum computers can one day be vastly more powerful than the most powerful supercomputers on the planet — but only if scientists find ways to fix the extremely high error rate in qubits.
Quantum computing: Facts about the ultra-powerful computers that use quantum mechanics
Discover interesting facts about quantum computers, how they differ from classical computers, and what sort of fields they'll be used in.
Quantum 'miracle material' can store information in a single dimension thanks to newly discovered magnetic switching
Scientists have developed a method for storing quantum information in a single dimension, thereby reducing decoherence, using chromium sulfide bromide.
'Squeezing' Schrödinger's cat-inspired qubits could lead to more reliable quantum computing
A new technique improves the reliability of cat qubits by squeezing their probabilistic states. This could improve their reliability and lifetime, and pave the way for accurate quantum computing.
Scientists observe new quantum phase that could have major implications for quantum computing
The exotic quantum phase, predicted over half a century ago, could lead to advances in quantum computing, sensors and communication technology.
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.
