Google Parent Alphabet Unveils Quantum Computing Chip Willow

Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google has unveiled a groundbreaking quantum computing chip called Willow. The innovative technology addresses a critical challenge in quantum computing, thus, revolutionising computational capabilities across multiple industries, says a report by news agency Reuters.

Also read: Apple iPhone SE 4 Camera Modules To Be Supplied By LG Innotek: Report

Alphabet's Quantum Computing Chip Willow

The Willow chip demonstrates an extraordinary computational feat, solving a complex problem in just five minutes -- a task that would theoretically exceed the computational capacity of classical computers throughout human history. 

"The Willow chip is a major step on a journey that began over 10 years ago. When I founded Google Quantum AI in 2012, the vision was to build a useful, large-scale quantum computer that could harness quantum mechanics — the “operating system” of nature to the extent we know it today — to benefit society by advancing scientific discovery, developing helpful applications, and tackling some of society's greatest challenges. 

Also read: Google to Release Pixel 6, Pixel 7, Pixel Fold Updates for Two Extra Years

"As part of Google Research, our team has charted a long-term roadmap, and Willow moves us significantly along that path towards commercially relevant applications," Hartmut Neven, Founder and Lead, Google Quantum AI, said in a statement.

This breakthrough arrives at a critical moment when tech giants are intensely competing to develop quantum computing systems that significantly outperform traditional silicon-based computers.

Quantum computing has long been hindered by the inherent instability of its fundamental components, known as qubits. Typically, increasing the number of qubits leads to exponentially higher error rates, making large-scale quantum computing unreliable. 

However, Google's Willow chip presents a novel solution by implementing a design that actually reduces error rates as more qubits are introduced.

Notably, the market responded positively and Alphabet's stock is currently up 25 per cent for the year, trading at a more attractive 12-month forward price-to-earnings ratio of 19.58 -- significantly lower than competitors Microsoft (32.03) and Amazon (36.79).