Fynsa
This week, Google presented its new quantum chip "Willow", a device capable of solving computational problems in less than 5 minutes, while the fastest supercomputers in existence today would take 10 thousand trillion years to perform the same operation.
This innovative chip harnesses the principles of quantum physics, a field that uses the properties of subatomic particles to perform calculations at breathtaking speed.
Developed by Google's Quantum AI team, this chip aims to build a "functional andaims to build a "functional, large-scale" quantum computer capable of using quantum mechanics "for the benefit of society," such as drug discovery, development of energy alternatives and cybersecurity, among others.capable of using quantum mechanics "for the benefit of society," such as drug discovery, development of energy alternatives and cybersecurity, among others.
From theory to practice
Although quantum chips can solve certain problems in record time, their actual application is in its early stages. Willow, for example, is considered an experimental device, which means that quantum computers powerful enough to face complex challenges of everyday life are still a long way off. Nevertheless, progress is undeniable.
Hartmut Neven, head of the Google lab that developed Willow, maintains that "this chip represents a breakthrough in the field of error correction", one of the most complicated barriers to making large-scale quantum computing functional. In this sense, it is expected that this type of device can accelerate processes that require large computational capacities.
Quantum technology promises great benefits, but it also poses risks, such as the potential use of these chips to breach encryption systems, which is putting different companies on alert. Apple, for example, is already working on "quantum-proof encryption" to protect sensitive data.
Key challenges
Google has explained that one of the biggest obstacles to quantum computing is errors.These occur because cubits - the smallest computational unit of a quantum device - tend to exchange information with their environment very quickly. This makes it difficult to protect the information needed to complete a computation.
Thus, the more cubits used, the more errors occur, to the point that the system becomes classical. However, Willow has been able to reduce errors, which is a significant improvement over previous models.
In scientific terms, this achievement is referred to as "staying below the threshold". This is a "historic" breakthrough that had not been resolved since it was first proposed in 1995.
As quantum technology advances, it is crucial to continue researching and developing solutions to overcome current challenges. The Willow chip is just the beginning of a new era in computing, one that promises to revolutionize multiple industries and improve the quality of life globally..
