Google has introduced a groundbreaking quantum computing chip named ‘Willow’, which it claims represents a significant step toward practical quantum computing. The chip, developed by Google Quantum AI’s team led by Hartmut Neven, can complete calculations in minutes that would take the world’s fastest supercomputers 10 septillion years to accomplish.

"Written out, that’s a 1 followed by 25 zeros. It’s an astonishing number," said Neven. The chip is part of Google’s ambitious mission to create quantum computers capable of addressing global challenges such as fusion energy and climate change mitigation.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai emphasized the broader vision, stating, "We see Willow as a crucial step in building quantum computing solutions with real-world applications in areas like drug discovery, energy storage, and battery design."

Quantum computing relies on qubits, which can exist as both 1 and 0 simultaneously, enabling the processing of vast numbers of outcomes at once. This contrasts with conventional computing that uses binary bits operating in singular states.

Globally, quantum computing has attracted nearly $20 billion in public and private investment over the last five years. As competition intensifies, countries like the U.S. and China are prioritizing quantum research, viewing it as a transformative technology with vast implications for industries worldwide.