Google has taken a significant leap in the field of quantum computing with the launch of its new chip, Willowwhich is capable of performing tasks in less than five minutes that, according to the company, would take a supercomputer more than 10 septillion yearsTo put this into perspective, this exceeds the estimated age of the universe.
This breakthrough not only marks substantial progress since 2019, when Google announced that its quantum processor could solve a mathematical equation in three minutes (compared to the 10,000 years required by a supercomputer), but also addresses and overcomes key challenges in quantum computing, such as error correction.
What makes Willow so special?
Unlike traditional bits in classical computing, which represent binary values (1 or 0), quantum systems use qubitsQubits are units that can exist in multiple states simultaneously (1, 0, and combinations of both). However, this characteristic makes qubits susceptible to errors due to their tendency to rapidly exchange information with their environment.
Google researchers have achieved a historic feat known as going "below the threshold." This means that by increasing the number of qubits in the system, they were able to reduce and correct errors in real time, a challenge first posed by Peter Shor in 1995.
According to Hartmut NevenAccording to the founder of Google Quantum AI, this achievement "demonstrates real progress in quantum error correction." The results were published in the prestigious journal Nature.
Willow specifications and capabilities
The Willow chip, which features 105 qubitsWillow has proven to be "best in class," according to Neven. During performance tests, Willow solved a standard task in under five minutes, further solidifying its position as a revolutionary breakthrough in the field.
Companies like Microsoft, Amazon, and IBM are also developing their own quantum systems, but Willow sets a new standard in terms of performance and error correction.
Google's vision for the future
Google's next goal is to perform the first "useful and beyond classical" calculation—that is, one relevant to real-world applications that traditional computers cannot achieve.
Sundar PichaiGoogle CEO Thomas highlighted that quantum computing will be "indispensable" in key areas such as:
- Data collection for training artificial intelligence.
- Discovery of new drugs.
- Design of more efficient batteries for electric vehicles.
- Accelerated progress in fusion energy and renewable alternatives.
Willow represents not only a technical advancement, but also a step toward a future where quantum computing will have a tangible impact on society. From solving complex problems in seconds to driving sustainability and technological innovation, Google's new chip promises to transform entire industries.
As Google and other leading companies continue to explore the possibilities of this technology, the horizon of quantum computing looks more promising than ever.
Original article by Emma Roth | December 09 2024 published in The Verge.
