Big Tech’s Race for Quantum Supremacy: Google vs. IBM vs. Microsoft
5 min read
Quantum computing is one of the most exciting—and sometimes bewildering—fields in tech today. While everyday devices still run on bits that are either 0 or 1, quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in multiple states at once. This opens up the possibility for solving problems that would take classical supercomputers millennia to complete. In the race toward quantum supremacy, tech giants like Google, IBM, and Microsoft are each taking unique approaches, and here’s a friendly guide to what they’re up to.
Google’s Quantum Leap with Willow
Google has been a major player in quantum computing for many years, consistently pushing the limits of what's possible.The latest excitement is about Google's Willow chip, a groundbreaking superconducting quantum processor with about 105 qubits.
The Willow chip can perform a benchmark calculation in less than five minutes.In comparison, the same task would take the fastest classical supercomputers around 10 septillion years to complete.
Google's strategy focuses on minimizing error rates, a critical factor for making quantum computers practical.As more qubits are added, the challenge is maintaining stability and accuracy.
Google's approach ensures the system becomes "more quantum" rather than more error-prone as qubits are added.This advancement in error correction is crucial because quantum data is very sensitive, and small disturbances can cause big errors.
By tackling these challenges, Google is leading the way for more reliable and efficient quantum computing solutions.These advancements could revolutionize fields that need immense computational power.
IBM’s Steady March Toward Quantum Advantage
IBM is a long-time leader in quantum research.
The company is making significant progress with its ambitious quantum computing roadmap.
IBM has developed a series of increasingly sophisticated processors, starting with prototypes like Eagle.
These early models set the stage for more advanced processors, such as Osprey.IBM is currently working towards the highly anticipated Condor processor.Each processor is a step forward in IBM's quest to achieve reliable error correction.
IBM's strategy combines gradual hardware improvements with robust quantum software development, like Qiskit. The goal is to create machines that can eventually outperform classical computers on real-world problems.
The focus on error correction is crucial to address the instability and sensitivity of quantum data, which can cause significant errors if not properly managed.
In addition to this, IBM is expanding its quantum systems globally, reaching Europe and beyond. This allows academic institutions and Fortune 500 companies to explore early quantum applications. Global deployment fosters innovation and collaboration, helping users develop solutions that could transform industries needing significant computational power.
Microsoft’s Bold Bet with Majorana 1
Microsoft is taking a different approach by focusing on a "new state of matter."
The Majorana 1 chip uses topological qubits, based on Majorana fermions theorized in the 1930s.
These qubits are designed to be more resistant to errors.
This design could mean fewer physical qubits are needed for the same computational power.Microsoft believes this breakthrough could lead to a scalable quantum computer with up to one million qubits.
The chip is small enough to fit in the palm of your hand.Currently, the Majorana 1 has only eight qubits.
Its architecture is considered a "high risk, high reward" approach that might make practical quantum computers available sooner than expected.
What are the experts talking about ?
Despite these impressive announcements, experts remind us that significant challenges remain. Error correction, scalability, and reliably controlling qubits under extreme conditions (often near absolute zero!) are still major hurdles. Some scientists caution that while these prototypes are important building blocks, a truly fault-tolerant, commercially useful quantum computer might still be 10 to 20 years away.
In other words, each breakthrough is like a promising step on a very long and winding road—but one that is drawing increased funding and global attention with every stride.
Looking Ahead
The race for quantum supremacy is not just about beating classical computers on specific benchmark problems—it’s about unlocking entirely new ways of solving real-world challenges. Whether it’s designing new drugs, optimizing complex logistics networks, or cracking encryption codes, quantum computing promises to revolutionize industries.
Google’s Willow chip, IBM’s evolving roadmap, and Microsoft’s Majorana 1 all illustrate different paths toward this future. Each approach has its own strengths and challenges, and the friendly competition among these tech giants is spurring rapid innovation that benefits the whole field.
As research continues and more breakthroughs occur, the quantum age might not be as far off as many skeptics suggest. For now, it’s a fascinating time to watch the race unfold—one qubit at a time.
References(For nerds):
El País – Google presenta Willow, un chip cuántico que resuelve en 5 minutos una tarea que un superordenador tardaría cuatrillones de años.
Published: December 9, 2024.
URL: https://elpais.com/tecnologia/2024-12-09/google-presenta-willow-un-chip-cuantico-que-resuelve-en-5-minutos-una-tarea-que-un-superordenador-tardaria-cuatrillones-de-anos.html
(Used for details on Google’s Willow chip.)Investors.com – Quantum Computing Stocks: Microsoft, IBM, Google Among News Makers.
Published: February 10, 2025.
URL: https://www.investors.com/news/technology/quantum-computing-stocks-ionq-ibm-msft-google/
(Used to explain IBM’s progress and global quantum initiatives.)Reuters – Microsoft creates chip it says shows quantum computers are 'years, not decades' away.
Published: February 19, 2025.
URL: https://www.reuters.com/technology/microsoft-creates-chip-it-says-shows-quantum-computers-are-years-not-decades-2025-02-19/
(Used for Microsoft’s approach and its Majorana 1 chip details.)New York Post – Microsoft says it created revolutionary Majorana 1 chip that uses new state of matter to run most powerful computers ever.
Published: February 20, 2025.
URL: https://nypost.com/2025/02/20/business/microsoft-it-created-revolutionary-majorana-1-chip-that-uses-new-state-of-matter/
(Provides additional insights on Microsoft’s breakthrough.)Business Insider – Big Tech is starry-eyed over quantum computers, but scientists say major breakthroughs are years away.
Published: March 4, 2025.
URL: https://www.businessinsider.com/scientists-say-major-quantum-computing-breakthroughs-are-years-away-2025-2
(Used to highlight the ongoing challenges and skepticism regarding quantum breakthroughs.)