Physicists double qubit coherence, opening door to faster quantum computing

Researchers at Aalto University in Finland have achieved a breakthrough in quantum computing by doubling the coherence time of transmon qubits, reaching an echo coherence time of 1 millisecond—significantly surpassing the previous record of approximately 0.6 milliseconds. Coherence time measures how long a qubit can maintain its quantum state without errors caused by environmental noise, which is critical for performing complex quantum operations with high fidelity. Longer coherence times reduce the reliance on extensive quantum error correction, a major hurdle in scaling quantum computers to practical, fault-tolerant devices. The team fabricated high-quality transmon qubits using superconducting materials sourced from Finland’s national research institute, VTT, and utilized advanced cleanroom facilities at Aalto University. This advancement not only marks a significant scientific milestone but also strengthens Finland’s position as a global leader in quantum technology. Supported by initiatives like the Finnish Quantum Flagship and the Academy of Finland’s Centre of Excellence in Quantum Technology, the researchers anticipate that industrial and commercial