We’ve discovered a new kind of magnetism. What can we do with it?

A new type of magnetism called "altermagnetism" was discovered in 2022, joining the two previously known types: ferromagnetism and antiferromagnetism. This third form combines properties of both, with potential applications in more efficient computer memory and spintronic devices.

Libor Šmejkal predicted altermagnets, which were later confirmed experimentally in manganese telluride. Researchers are now exploring ways to create and control altermagnetic materials, with over 200 candidate materials identified and the possibility of commercial viability within a decade.