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Google’s Willow Chip: Quantum Leap In Computing Power That Defies Time Itself

A Breakthrough in Quantum Computing

Google has introduced “Willow,” a revolutionary quantum chip capable of solving problems so complex that even modern supercomputers would require an astronomical 10 septillion years to complete them. In stark contrast, Willow accomplishes these tasks in just five minutes, marking a monumental leap in the race to develop functional, large-scale quantum computers.

How Willow Works

The power of Willow lies in its ability to harness quantum mechanics — the physics governing subatomic particles — to perform calculations at unprecedented speeds. Traditional supercomputers process information in binary bits (0s and 1s), but Willow employs qubits, which can exist in multiple states simultaneously. This capability allows quantum computers to solve complex problems exponentially faster than classical devices.

One of Willow’s most significant advancements is its capacity to reduce quantum errors — a persistent challenge in quantum computing. Google achieved this by increasing the number of qubits, enabling more precise and stable computations. This breakthrough addresses an issue researchers have been working on for nearly 30 years. Google calls it a major milestone on its journey toward building a “large-scale useful quantum computer” that could transform industries like healthcare, logistics, and cybersecurity.

What It Means for the Future

Quantum computing is seen as a double-edged sword. On the one hand, it holds the promise of faster drug discovery, optimization of supply chains, and advances in AI. On the other, it raises concerns about the potential to crack existing encryption methods, posing a threat to global cybersecurity. Tech giants like Apple have already responded by upgrading their encryption to be “quantum-proof,” ensuring that sensitive data remains secure even as quantum technology advances.

For now, Willow remains a prototype, not yet ready to tackle real-world applications. Experts predict it will take years — and billions in investment — before quantum computers reach the scale needed to address practical problems. But for Google, the unveiling of Willow represents a crucial step forward. As Google Quantum AI stated, “Willow takes us significantly further along that path toward commercially significant applications.”

With quantum computing now moving from theory to tangible progress, Willow’s debut could be a defining moment in the evolution of technology, one that challenges the very concept of time in problem-solving.

Forbes Middle East Unveils 100 Most Powerful Businesswomen Of 2025

Forbes Middle East has unveiled its much-anticipated 2025 ranking of the region’s top businesswomen, spotlighting influential leaders reshaping industries and driving meaningful transformation. The list was based on business size, individual accomplishments, leadership impact, and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Top Spot For Hana Al Rostamani

For the third consecutive year, Hana Al Rostamani, Group CEO of First Abu Dhabi Bank (UAE’s largest bank by assets), claims the top position. In addition to retaining her position in the Forbes Middle East ranking, she was also featured on Forbes’ 2024 list of the World’s Most Powerful Women, securing the 60th position globally. Under her leadership, the bank achieved an impressive $3.5 billion in net profits and $334.8 billion in assets in the first nine months of 2024.

Rising Stars In The Top 10

Shaikha Khaled Al Bahar of NBK Group and Shaista Asif, cofounder and Group CEO of PureHealth Holding, take the second and third spots respectively, completing the top three.

The top 10 remains largely unchanged from last year, with Tayba Al Hashemi of ADNOC Offshore, Alisha Moopen of Aster DM Healthcare GCC, and Suzanne Al Anani of Dubai Aviation Engineering Projects (DAEP) making their debut in the top 10. In total, 27 new leaders have joined the list this year.

A Diverse And Powerful Group Of Women

This year’s list features 100 women from 32 sectors and 29 nationalities, underlining the diversity of talent driving the region’s progress. The banking and financial services sector leads with 25 entries, followed by healthcare and technology with nine each, and venture capital with five. Remarkably, 40% of the top 10 women are from the banking and financial services sector. Notably, Shaista Asif (PureHealth Holding) and Alisha Moopen (Aster DM Healthcare GCC) are the only non-Arab women in the top 10.

UAE Leads With 46 Leaders

The UAE continues to dominate, with 46 of the women on the list hailing from the country, solidifying its status as a global business hub. Egypt follows with 18 influential women, and Saudi Arabia claims nine entries. Egyptians lead in representation, followed by Emiratis and Lebanese women.

Empowering Women Through Initiatives

Several of the leaders have focused on upskilling and creating opportunities for women. Susana Rodriguez Puerta launched the ‘sAIdaty’ initiative in collaboration with the Dubai Business Women Council, aimed at providing 500 female council members in the UAE with AI skills. Similarly, Lamia Tazi of SOTHEMA collaborated with the Foundation for Research, Development, and Innovation in Science and Engineering to provide scholarships to PhD students from low-income backgrounds.

Click here for the full list.

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