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IQM Quantum Computers has introduced a novel quantum processing unit (QPU) architecture known as IQM Star, which departs from traditional grid-based designs by using a central superconducting resonator to connect multiple qubits. This effective all-to-all connectivity enables direct, high-fidelity interactions between any pair of qubits, significantly reducing the need for noisy SWAP gates. The architecture supports more flexible quantum error correction (QEC) schemes and improves circuit execution efficiency for connectivity-intensive algorithms. In a set of three research papers, IQM demonstrates the practical advantages of Star’s architecture. These include high-fidelity error detection with logical fidelities above 96%, creation of high-quality GHZ states, [...]

Xanadu has announced a strategic collaboration with Applied Materials to co-develop the first high-volume-compatible 300 mm fabrication process for superconducting transition edge sensors (TESs), a core technology enabling photon-number-resolving detectors (PNRs) in photonic quantum computing. TESs are integral to Xanadu’s approach to qubit state preparation, and their reliable, scalable production is considered essential for building fault-tolerant, utility-scale photonic quantum computers. This effort builds on previous joint work between the two companies, now advancing into the demonstration phase of 300 mm-compatible TES manufacturing by the end of 2025. Applied Materials brings its deep expertise in advanced materials engineering and process control on [...]

IonQ has announced two new research achievements demonstrating how quantum computing can augment artificial intelligence workflows, particularly in the domains of language modeling and materials science. In one effort, IonQ researchers integrated a quantum machine learning (QML) layer into a pre-trained large language model (LLM) to improve its fine-tuning on sentiment classification tasks. The hybrid quantum-classical architecture outperformed classical baselines with similar parameter counts and showed promise for improved accuracy and energy efficiency as the problem size scales beyond 46 qubits. In a second initiative, IonQ collaborated with a major automotive company to apply quantum-enhanced generative adversarial networks (QGANs) for image [...]

Keio University, a long-standing IBM Quantum Innovation Center in Japan, is advancing quantum reservoir computing (QRC) in collaboration with Mitsubishi Chemical. Their joint research aims to evaluate utility-scale QRC methods by implementing machine learning tasks on IBM quantum processors. This effort builds on a 2023 experiment with collaborators from the University of Tokyo, University of Arizona, and UNSW, where they modeled soft robot motion using quantum input states and linear regression post-processing. Unlike conventional QRC approaches, which require repeated quantum circuit executions at each time step, the team introduced a repeated measurements technique using auxiliary qubits. This method allows time series [...]

India has declared its intent to become a global quantum leader through the $750 million National Quantum Mission (NQM), aiming to accelerate innovation in computing, communications, sensing, and materials. However, two recent publications—the ITES strategy report from the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser and an analysis from Physics World—reveal gaps between ambition and execution, particularly in indigenous hardware, investment depth, and regulatory readiness. Despite success in quantum algorithms and theoretical research, India still relies on foreign sources for critical hardware. Efforts like QpiAI's 25-qubit superconducting computer highlight emerging capabilities, but the qubits were fabricated abroad. Challenges include low venture capital [...]

Quantum cybersecurity company QNu Labs has secured INR 60 crore ($7.1 million USD) in Series A funding, led by the Indian government’s National Quantum Mission (NQM), which contributed INR 25 crore ($3 million USD). Additional investors included Lucky Investment, Speciale Invest, Tenacity Ventures, and Singularity AMC. The funding brings QNu’s total capital raised to 20 million USD. The Bengaluru-based startup will use the funds to scale its commercial operations, strengthen global partnerships, and accelerate the rollout of its QShield platform, a Quantum Security-as-a-Service offering launched on World Quantum Day. Founded in 2016 and incubated at IIT-Madras, QNu Labs offers a full [...]

Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi) has secured a $406,478 subcontract to develop quantum computing methods for enhancing space-based LIDAR data analysis at NASA’s Langley Research Center. The award, granted through prime contractor Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA), will fund work until May 2026 and focuses on leveraging QCi’s Dirac-3 quantum computer to address solar noise—a critical issue for reliable daytime atmospheric sensing and Earth observation. NASA’s current LIDAR systems struggle with sunlight interference during daylight missions, often requiring bulky optical systems to maintain signal-to-noise ratio. QCi’s quantum-based approach aims to improve data quality without increasing payload size, weight, or power requirements. If successful, [...]

Rigetti Computing has officially closed a $35 million equity investment from Quanta Computer, marking a significant advancement in the strategic partnership between the two companies. Under the terms of the deal, Quanta purchased shares of Rigetti common stock at approximately $11.59 per share. This funding milestone strengthens the collaborative roadmap previously outlined by Rigetti and Quanta and signals a deepening of their alignment in quantum hardware development. According to Rigetti CEO Dr. Subodh Kulkarni, combining Rigetti’s superconducting quantum technology with Quanta’s manufacturing leadership positions both companies at the forefront of the quantum computing industry. The announcement reflects a broader strategic effort [...]

Q-STAR and UKQuantum have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen bilateral collaboration between Japan and the UK in quantum technologies. This agreement builds on the broader governmental Memorandum of Cooperation between the UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology and Japan’s Cabinet Office, reinforcing mutual ambitions to lead globally in quantum research, development, and commercialization. Both countries recognize the strategic importance of quantum science and the value of formalizing industry-level cooperation to complement diplomatic and academic engagements. Under the MoU, the two national quantum industry associations will coordinate efforts across four key areas: commercialization, policy alignment, international engagement, and [...]

Orientum and KB Kookmin Bank have signed a strategic memorandum of understanding (MOU) to collaborate on developing and commercializing quantum computing technologies for the financial sector. This partnership aims to accelerate innovation in areas such as quantum-powered financial modeling, encryption, and simulation, positioning both companies at the forefront of quantum-finance convergence in South Korea and beyond. The collaboration will focus on several key initiatives: developing quantum algorithms for financial data analysis, creating quantum-enhanced security systems, and designing simulation tools for complex financial products like derivatives. The agreement also includes joint talent development programs—such as seminars and educational tracks—to cultivate expertise at [...]