On December 9, 2024, Google unveiled its latest quantum computing chip, named Willow, which is touted as the most powerful quantum chip to date. Willow has demonstrated the capability to execute benchmarks in under five minutes, a feat that would take the fastest supercomputers over ten septillion years to accomplish [c6bf3094].
Hartmut Neven, the head of Google Quantum AI, suggested that the computations performed by Willow might draw from parallel universes, a concept rooted in the multiverse theory [c6bf3094]. This assertion has sparked both excitement and skepticism within the scientific community, as critics point out the lack of independent verification for these claims [c6bf3094].
Willow operates with approximately 105 qubits, with plans to scale up to 1,000 qubits in the future. This advancement in qubit technology is crucial, as quantum computing leverages qubits for significantly faster processing compared to classical computing [c6bf3094]. The potential applications of Willow are vast, including drug discovery, climate modeling, and solving complex problems that are currently unmanageable with traditional computing methods [c6bf3094].
Despite the enthusiasm surrounding Willow, experts caution that practical applications of this technology are still years away, and issues related to reliability and error rates in quantum computing remain significant challenges [517f26d0]. The introduction of Willow occurs against a backdrop of increasing competition in the quantum technology sector, particularly between the U.S. and China, with reports indicating that China is outspending the U.S. two to one in quantum investments [af733fc9].
Rajeeb Hazra, CEO of Quantinuum, has called for a boost in U.S. investments in quantum and supercomputing technologies to maintain a competitive edge [af733fc9]. The global quantum technology market is projected to reach $1 trillion by 2035, with significant contributions expected from countries like Australia, which could see around $6.1 billion in investments by 2045 [e489c1fd].
As Google continues to push the boundaries of quantum technology with Willow, the stakes in the global tech landscape are rising, highlighting the interplay between supercomputing and quantum computing as critical for future economic growth and national security [af733fc9]. The chip was manufactured in California, and the UK has also been making strides in quantum technology, with 50 businesses attracting £800 million in funding [c6dc29b9]. Researchers from institutions like Oxford and Osaka University are exploring innovative approaches, including room temperature quantum computing, which could further enhance the field [c6dc29b9].