Willow chip shows Google’s lead in quantum, says Baird

Baird analyst Colin Sebastian says Alphabet’s (GOOG) (GOOGL) new Willow quantum chip reinforces Google’s technology leadership. While quantum is still years from broad commercial adoption, the new Willow quantum chip showcases Google’s lead in quantum research, including a new advanced research and manufacturing facility in Santa Barbara, the analyst tells investors in a research note. The firm says an optimistic view of quantum is that Google will be able to leverage unique strengths across quantum, artificial intelligence and cloud computing to offer a range of “new industry-changing” applications. Baird expects a “quantum arms race to unfold” involving big tech companies, Silicon Valley venture capitalists, and China. It keeps an Outperform rating on Alphabet with a $205 price target.