Google has introduced its new quantum computing chip, Willow. Built-in the company’s quantum lab in Santa Barbara, California, the chip solved a complex mathematical problem in less than five minutes. In comparison, traditional supercomputers would take 10 septillion years to complete the same task, highlighting the power of quantum computing. The Willow chip features 105 qubits, the fundamental units of quantum computation. Unlike regular bits, qubits can exist in multiple states at once, allowing for much faster processing. However, qubits are sensitive to external factors, which can lead to errors as the number of qubits increases. Google’s advancements in error correction have made progress in addressing this issue.
Hartmut Neven, Founder and Lead of Google Quantum AI said: ' We’re optimistic that the Willow generation of chips can help us achieve this goal. So far, there have been two separate types of experiments. On the one hand, we’ve run the RCS benchmark, which measures performance against classical computers but has no known real-world applications. On the other hand, we’ve done scientifically interesting simulations of quantum systems, which have led to new scientific discoveries but are still within the reach of classical computers. Our goal is to do both at the same time — to step into the realm of algorithms that are beyond the reach of classical computers and that are useful for real-world, commercially relevant problems.'
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While Willow does not have direct commercial applications yet, Google predicts that quantum computing will play a role in fields like medicine, battery technology, and artificial intelligence. These industries could benefit from quantum computing’s ability to tackle problems that traditional
Quantum computing uses the principles of quantum mechanics to perform calculations at speeds far beyond traditional computers. By leveraging the behaviour of subatomic particles, quantum computers can revolutionise fields such as drug discovery, nuclear fusion, and energy storage in batteries.
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Despite its potential, quantum computing poses security risks. It could render current encryption methods obsolete, jeopardising sensitive data. To address these concerns, Apple has taken steps to protect its users by making iMessage encryption resistant to quantum threats, ensuring future data security.
