Technology & AI

Google reports quantum error cut 40-fold on Willow chip

Google's Quantum AI team reported that a new error-reduction method on its Willow processor reached 99.99% logical fidelity, a step toward practical error-corrected quantum computers. Crypto outlets say it revives worries about bitcoin and Ethereum security.

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What happened

Google's Quantum AI team has demonstrated a method called magic state cultivation on its Willow processor, reducing errors in preparing quantum magic states by about 40 times. The technique reached 99.99% logical fidelity in testing. Google's chief executive, Sundar Pichai, announced the advance.

Why it matters

Google says the advance takes it another step closer to building a useful, error-corrected quantum computer. Commentators have also raised concerns about what the advance means for the security of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.

Timeline

  1. Oct 16, 11:37 AM ET: Google Quantum AI reports successfully demonstrating magic state cultivation on its Willow processor.
  2. Oct 16, 2:42 PM ET: Sundar Pichai announces the breakthrough, and crypto assets such as Bitcoin and Ethereum are drawn into discussion of future security concerns.
  3. Oct 16, 10:30 PM ET: Google says the Willow chip can prepare the special quantum states needed for advanced calculations with about 40 times fewer errors.
  4. Oct 17, 7:39 AM ET: An analyst warns of a smaller gap after the breakthrough, while Google says the advance moves it closer to an error-corrected quantum computer.

Coverage

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