Google opens access to powerful Willow quantum chip for UK scientists

Google has partnered with the UK’s National Quantum Computing Centre (NQCC) to provide UK researchers access to its most powerful quantum processor, the Willow chip. This initiative invites scientists to submit proposals for developing applications in fields such as material science, chemistry, medicine, and life sciences. The Willow chip, unveiled in December 2024, is notable for its advanced superconducting qubit technology and breakthrough error correction capabilities, enabling it to perform computations exponentially faster than classical supercomputers. For example, it completed a benchmark task in under five minutes that would take a top supercomputer an estimated 10 septillion years. The collaboration aims to accelerate real-world quantum applications by leveraging Willow’s unique ability to handle complex problems beyond classical computing reach. Selected UK researchers will work closely with Google Quantum AI and NQCC experts to design experiments using the processor. This partnership aligns with the UK government’s commitment to quantum technology, which includes a £670 million investment and an estimated £11 billion economic contribution by