Google will steer quantum machines onto a hybrid path, combining superconducting qubits with neutral atoms.

Google Quantum AI expands its research portfolio: introducing neutral‑atom quantum computers

The Google Quantum AI division announced the launch of a new quantum computing platform – “neutral‑atom QCs.” This initiative complements the existing superconducting qubit infrastructure and aims to create hybrid or interconnected systems that combine the strengths of both technologies.

Brief history
* 2019 – Google was the first to announce achieving quantum supremacy: running an algorithm that, by estimates, would be inaccessible to classical computers.
* Since then the company has continued refining superconducting qubits, scaling up to millions of gates with microsecond coherence times.

Now Google plans to “play a different game” and focus on neutral atoms to broaden the horizons of its quantum systems.

Why both approaches matter
In the company’s blog it is emphasized that superconducting and neutral platforms are complementary:

Joint development of “space” (number of qubits) and “time” (coherence duration) should accelerate the path to practical quantum supremacy, enabling solutions to problems previously considered intractable.

New team
To implement this initiative, Google Quantum AI has brought on neutral‑atom expert Dr. Adam Kaufman. He will lead a team in Boulder, Colorado. The team’s main tasks include:

1. Adapting error‑correction schemes to the specific properties of neutral‑atom arrays.
2. Advanced modeling and simulation using Google Cloud computing resources.
3. Developing experimental hardware for working with neutral atoms.

Thus, Google Quantum AI strengthens its quantum technology arsenal by combining superconducting qubits and neutral atoms in pursuit of more powerful and flexible quantum computing systems.