Which major advancement was achieved with the development of the Z1?

The development of the Z1 marked a significant milestone in computing history, particularly in the context of mechanical computing elements. Created by Konrad Zuse in the 1930s, the Z1 was among the first programmable computers that employed a mechanical design. It utilized a series of gears and levers, which were revolutionary at the time, for executing calculations and processing information. This emphasis on mechanical components laid foundational concepts for future computing technologies.

While the use of binary code for processing is also closely associated with advancements in computing, the Z1 specifically demonstrated the foundational principles of mechanical computing. This choice highlights how early computers increasingly relied on mechanical elements to perform calculations, making it a key milestone in the evolution of computer design. The other advancements mentioned in the question, such as programming languages and hardware/software integration, came later as the field of computing evolved and built upon the initial breakthroughs exemplified by devices like the Z1.