# Quantum Computing Could Finally Break the 44-Year Magnet Stall - slug: quantum-computing-could-finally-break-the-44-year-magnet-stall - date: 2026-04-02 - category: Quantum Computing The last major advance in permanent magnets came in 1982. A new ARPA-E grant to Alice & Bob to use quantum computers to find rare-earth-free replacements is the first real test of whether cat-qubit hardware can deliver on its industrial promises. ---