Google has introduced Willow, a quantum computing chip capable of solving problems in minutes that would take traditional supercomputers 10 septillion years.
Hartmut Neven, head of Google’s Quantum AI, called it a landmark achievement, particularly for its ability to reduce computational errors exponentially—a challenge researchers have tackled for decades. This milestone, termed “below threshold,” allows qubits, the building blocks of quantum computing, to scale reliably without excessive errors.
Google CEO Sundar Pichai described Willow as a step toward practical quantum computing, with potential applications in medicine, energy, and advanced technologies. Willow marks the second milestone in Google’s six-stage quantum roadmap.
Quantum advancements have raised fears about their ability to break blockchain encryption. However, experts like Kevin Rose note that cracking Bitcoin’s security would require quantum systems with millions of qubits, far beyond Willow’s current 105. Ethereum’s Vitalik Buterin has suggested strategies, such as hard forks, to mitigate future risks.
While Willow showcases impressive progress, practical quantum computing remains years away.
Fabio Panetta, head of the Bank of Italy and former European Central Bank executive, is pushing for the swift rollout of a digital euro, calling it Europe’s best answer to rising crypto risks and global regulatory fragmentation.
Telegram has successfully raised $1.7 billion in a bond offering that drew overwhelming investor interest, exceeding initial targets and signaling strong confidence in the platform’s growth trajectory.
The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission has officially ended its legal battle with crypto exchange Binance, closing a major chapter in the regulatory crackdown on digital asset platforms.
Circle, the issuer behind the USDC stablecoin, is preparing to go public, and sources say BlackRock is gearing up to take a significant piece of the action—possibly acquiring 10% of the offering.