What’s the noise eating quantum bits?

Super powerful quantum computing relies on quantum bits, aka qubits, which are the equivalent of the classical bits used in today’s computers. SQUIDs are being investigated for the development of qubits. However, system noise can destroy the data stored in the resulting qubits. Calculations have confirmed experimental evidence that oxygen molecules adsorbed on the surface of the SQUID are the most likely source of low-frequency magnetic noise. Scientists identified mitigation strategies, such as surface protection and improved vacuum environments. These approaches lowered the surface oxygen and the associated noise to levels needed for SQUIDs to be used in the next generation of computers.