Google recently launched its highly anticipated quantum computing chipset, Willow, claiming that it can exponentially reduce errors when scaling with more qubits. However, critics have raised doubts about the tech giant’s bold claims, sparking discussions among the scientific community about the possibility of parallel universes or multiverses. While Google has touted practical applications for Willow in areas like drug discovery, battery designs, and fusion energy, some experts have questioned the real-world impact of the technology.
One of the main criticisms comes from venture capitalist Steve Jurvetson, who argues that Google’s claim of quantum supremacy is based on a flawed benchmark and has no known real-world applications. German physicist Sabine Hossenfelder also weighed in, stating that the particular calculation used to demonstrate quantum supremacy has no practical use. She also pointed out that Google specifically chose a problem that is challenging for conventional computers due to its reliance on heavy entanglement.
Despite the criticism, Willow has received some positive attention. Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk and Google CEO Sundar Pichai have hinted at a potential collaboration for quantum clusters in space with Starship. However, this is not the first time Google has made bold claims about its quantum computing capabilities. In 2019, the company claimed to have achieved quantum supremacy with a 54-qubit chip, but this was met with scepticism from IBM. Three years later, scientists in China reportedly replicated Google’s claim in a few hours using ordinary processors.
Hossenfelder notes a pattern in the quantum computing field, where grand claims are made about the technology’s potential, but the practical applications are yet to be seen. While Willow may have its share of positive moments, it remains to be seen if it can live up to Google’s bold claims.
