  Quantum fluctuations are ubiquitous in physics. Ranging from conventional
examples like the harmonic oscillator to intricate theories on the origin of
the universe, they alter virtually all aspects of matter -- including
superconductivity, phase transitions and nanoscale processes. As a rule of
thumb, the smaller the object, the larger their impact. This poses a serious
challenge to modern nanotechnology, which aims total control via atom-by-atom
engineered devices. In magnetic nanostructures, high stability of the magnetic
signal is crucial when targeting realistic applications in information
technology, e.g. miniaturized bits. Here, we demonstrate that zero-point
spin-fluctuations are paramount in determining the fundamental magnetic
exchange interactions that dictate the nature and stability of the magnetic
state. Hinging on the fluctuation-dissipation theorem, we establish that
quantum fluctuations correctly account for the large overestimation of the
interactions as obtained from conventional static first-principles frameworks,
filling in a crucial gap between theory and experiment [1,2]. Our analysis
further reveals that zero-point spin-fluctuations tend to promote the
non-collinearity and stability of chiral magnetic textures such as skyrmions --
a counter-intuitive quantum effect that inspires practical guidelines for
designing disruptive nanodevices.
