Google has announced that its new Willow chip significantly outperforms traditional computers in solving mathematical equations, reigniting interest in quantum computing. The company claims to have crossed a key threshold towards error-free quantum computers. This is reminiscent of 2019 when Google introduced the Sycamore processor, claiming quantum supremacy. Despite initial excitement, large-scale applications were not feasible, and NVIDIA's high-performance chips excelled in simulating quantum computing, avoiding its drawbacks.
Quantum computing uses qubits, which can process data between 0 and 1, unlike traditional computers that use binary bits. Google's latest achievement corrects errors on a larger scale, enhancing quantum computing's potential. Companies like IonQ Inc. (IONQ, Financial) are already showcasing practical utility, with IonQ's stock tripling this year. Quantum computers, although error-prone, are accessible via cloud platforms like Amazon's Braket and Microsoft's Azure.
The race to build practical quantum computers is intensifying, with Google, IBM, and others using superconducting qubits, while IonQ and Quantinuum focus on natural particles. This competition could yield significant scientific advancements and commercial opportunities.
