Google Quantum AI recently revealed a groundbreaking development: a quantum chip named Willow that promises to redefine computational limits.
Willow reportedly solves problems in under five minutes that would take classical supercomputers 10 septillion years to solve—a period far exceeding the universe’s lifespan.
Quantum computing hinges on qubits, units of quantum information that utilize principles like superposition and entanglement. Unlike traditional bits limited to binary states (0 or 1), qubits can simultaneously exist in multiple states.
Did you know?
Want to get smarter & wealthier with crypto?
Subscribe – We publish new crypto explainer videos every week!
5 Best Crypto Portfolio Diversification Strategies (Animated Explanation)
However, as more qubits are incorporated, systems risk becoming error-prone due to environmental interference, a problem that Willow tackles effectively.
Willow employs advanced error correction techniques, reducing inaccuracies while scaling up its qubits. The Google Quantum AI lead Hartmut Neven described this as reaching “below threshold”, a critical point where computational errors decrease as more qubits are added.
Willow’s advancements align with Google’s ambition to create a practical quantum computer. Such systems hold promise for diverse applications, from revolutionizing drug discovery to optimizing energy solutions. CEO Sundar Pichai highlighted the chip as a crucial step toward these objectives.
Despite the hype, quantum computing remains in its early stages. The former Google product manager Kevin Rose emphasizes that Willow is far from the millions needed to break blockchain encryption methods.
He posted on X, answering whether Google’s Willow could crack Bitcoin
$97,691.37
:
Estimates indicate that compromising Bitcoin’s encryption would necessitate a quantum computer with approximately 13 million qubits to achieve decryption within a 24-hour period. In contrast, Google’s Willow chip, while a significant advancement, comprises 105 qubits.
To illustrate Willow’s capabilities, Google tested it using Random Circuit Sampling, a benchmark that evaluates quantum systems against classical computers. The results indicated its superior performance, but the next hurdle involves demonstrating its utility in solving practical problems that classical systems cannot address.
In a related development, Google’s AI project AlphaQubit is making waves in next-gen computing. What groundbreaking potential does AlphaQubit hold? Read the full story.
Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.
