Princeton’s New Qubit Marks Major Leap Toward Practical Quantum Computers
Princeton researchers have developed a superconducting qubit that stays stable three times longer than the strongest previous designs. The breakthrough brings practical quantum computers much closer. As a result, scientists now see a clearer path to reliable, large-scale processors.Andrew Houck, Princeton’s engineering dean, says today’s biggest challenge is qubit instability. Information fades too quickly for real problem-solving. However, the new design, reported in Nature, stays coherent for more than one millisecond. This sets a new laboratory record and is nearly fifteen times better than commercial standards.
Built to Work With Google and IBM
The team built a working chip using the new architecture. It remains compatible with systems developed by Google and IBM, which rely on transmon qubits. Therefore, the new approach could upgrade existing processors without redesigning entire systems. Houck even noted that replacing parts of Google’s Willow processor could boost performance by 1,000 times.
Why Tantalum and Silicon Matter
Transmon qubits typically fail because they lose energy through tiny material defects. Princeton solved this by using tantalum, a metal with fewer imperfections, and pairing it with high-purity silicon. This combination sharply reduces energy loss. In addition, it supports stronger error correction and easier scaling.Nathalie de Leon, co-director of Princeton’s Quantum Initiative, says the design improves performance while remaining easier to manufacture. Google Quantum AI’s Michel Devoret praised the work, calling the field’s past attempts a “graveyard” of failed ideas.
Toward Billion-Fold Improvements
The improvements expand dramatically as systems grow. A 1,000-qubit computer could perform up to a billion times better using Princeton’s design. The project unites experts in materials science, quantum measurement, and circuit design. Their collaboration offers a strong model for future academic–industry partnerships.
