Google has introduced a new quantum computing chip that, according to the company, can solve a problem in five minutes that would take the fastest modern conventional computer 10 septillion (10 with 24 zeros) years to solve.
The new chip is Google’s latest development in quantum computing, which leverages the principles of particle physics to create a new type of “astonishingly powerful” computer. Google claims that its new quantum chip, named Willow, has been created using the latest “breakthrough” advancements in the field and “paves the way for a useful, large-scale quantum computer.”
Experts, however, note that Willow is primarily an experimental device at this stage. It will be many years before quantum computers are practically used to solve real-world problems, and this will require significant investments.
Quantum computers use phenomena from quantum mechanics (quantum superposition and quantum entanglement), which drastically increases their ability to process and transmit data. Unlike traditional bits, which can only be either 0 or 1, quantum bits (qubits) can simultaneously represent both 0 and 1.
It is expected that over time, quantum computers will significantly speed up computations needed in various fields of modern science — for example, in the creation of new medicines.
Hartmut Neven, the head of Google’s quantum AI lab that developed Willow, stated that the new chip will be used in some practical applications, but he did not provide further details. According to him, a chip capable of performing commercial applications will not be available until the end of this decade.
Initially, it will be used in modeling systems where quantum effects are important.
“For example, this will be relevant in designing nuclear fusion reactors, understanding how drugs work, and developing pharmaceuticals. It will also be important for the development of more advanced automotive batteries, as well as many other similar tasks,” he said.
