Microsoft has announced a groundbreaking quantum computing chip, Majorana 1, which it claims could make useful quantum computers a reality within years. The company believes this innovation puts it ahead in the race to unlock quantum computing's vast potential.

Unlike classical computers, quantum systems could perform calculations in fields like medicine and chemistry that would otherwise take millions of years, although they also pose risks to current encryption standards.

The Majorana 1 chip relies on a particle called the Majorana fermion, theorised in the 1930s. Microsoft says its unique design makes the chip less error-prone than its competitors.

Despite having fewer qubits than chips from Google and IBM, the company argues that the lower error rates mean fewer qubits are needed for practical applications.

Microsoft's development of Majorana 1 combines advanced materials like indium arsenide and aluminium, using a superconducting nanowire to observe and control the Majorana particles.

Fabricated at its labs in Washington and Denmark, the chip was described as a 'high risk, high reward' endeavour by Jason Zander, a senior Microsoft executive.

Quantum physicist Philip Kim from Harvard University praised the innovation, calling it an exciting step forward. While scaling up the technology remains a challenge, experts suggest Microsoft's approach could lead to significant advancements in quantum computing.

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