Alphabet shares surge with new quantum chip launch
A revolution in quantum computing with the Willow chip.
Alphabet’s stock jumped 5% on Tuesday after the company unveiled Willow, a groundbreaking chip that addresses a major hurdle in quantum computing. Introduced on Monday, Willow solved a problem in five minutes that would take classical computers longer than the age of the universe. This breakthrough brings quantum computing closer to practical applications in science, medicine, and finance.
Quantum computers, powered by qubits, promise incredible speed but face challenges with error rates that grow with scale. Google’s Willow chip reduces errors exponentially by stringing qubits together in a way that allows for real-time error correction. This innovation marks a significant step toward making quantum computing reliable and commercially viable.
While the technology is still in its infancy, experts believe Willow could drive breakthroughs across industries. Alphabet’s shares, up 25% this year, outpaced market expectations, with investors optimistic about the potential impact of quantum computing on the company’s future. Other tech leaders like Microsoft and Quantinuum are also advancing in the race to commercialise quantum systems.