Google’s new quantum processor aims to outperform supercomputers

By Nicole DiGiose, content editor

The race for mastering quantum computing is at its peak between major tech companies, and Google has plans to be the first to reach quantum supremacy with its latest design. The company’s quantum computer chip, known as Bristlecone , has the record-setting power of 72 quantum bits (qubits).

Bristlecone will help researchers understand error rates and scalability. Image source: Google.

Normal computers operate in binary and data is represented as zeros or ones, but in quantum mechanics, a qubit can represent both. This results in an exponential increase of power in quantum computing and allows quantum computers to perform different operations simultaneously. With Bristlecone, its qubits are arranged in a square array and get their quantum nature through superconductivity, allowing them to represent multiple states by conducting current in two different directions at once.

According to Google research scientist, Julian Kelly, the purpose of the new quantum processor is to provide a testbed for research into system error rates and scalability of the company’s qubit technology, as well as applications in quantum simulation, optimization, and machine learning. The prototype should be able to outdo Google’s earlier 9-qubit device when it comes to the essential technology of quantum error correction.

Of course, quantum computing isn’t just about qubits. “Operating a device such as Bristlecone at low system error requires harmony between a full stack of technology ranging from software and control electronics to the processor itself,” said Kelly in a blog post . “Getting this right requires careful systems engineering over several iterations.”

With dwindling performance improvements and increasing difficulty when it comes to delivering next-generation designs, some reports show that conventional computer chip designs are running out of steam. Quantum computing could strengthen the industry, though it’s not clear how difficult engineering and programming such chips will be or what tasks they’ll truly be beneficial for. But one analyst firm, Communications Industry Researchers, believes that quantum computing is mature enough to declare it big business for the future. The company estimates that quantum computing revenue will increase from $1.9 billion in 2023 to $8 billion by 2027 .

Google’s research team is cautiously optimistic that quantum supremacy can be achieved with Bristlecone and feels that learning to build and operate devices at such a level of performance is an exciting challenge.