The Week in Quantum Computing - March 3rd - Quantum Machines, IonQ & ID Quantique, Horizon Quantum
Issue #224
Quick Recap
Investment in quantum technologies remains robust in 2025. QT Sense raised €6M to refine its single-cell sensing platform under CEO Dr. Deepak Veeregowda and Prof. Dr. Romana Schirhagl, with QDNL and Interreg Europe backing. IonQ has acquired ID Quantique for $250M, propelling quantum-safe encryption, while Quantum Machines secured $170M in Series C to expand real-time orchestration solutions. QuEra teamed with Deloitte Tohmatsu to advance a 256-qubit neutral-atom system in Japan, shaping new commercial use cases. On the technical front, Google integrated NIST-standardized quantum-safe digital signatures into Cloud KMS. QuantWare’s Contralto-A 17-qubit QPU supports distance-3 surface codes, edging closer to error correction, while PsiQuantum unveiled chip-to-chip fidelity of 99.72% and an Omega chipset for manufacturability. Gil Kalai’s doubt over noise-resistant quantum hardware sparked debate with Preskill and Aaronson, underscoring scrutiny of Microsoft’s topological qubits claims. And talking about Microsoft, AWS did not want to stay behind and announced their “Ocelot” chip that adds cat qubits to the mix. Now the three main hyperscalers (plus IBM) has their own chips!
The Week in Quantum Computing
Google Unveils Quantum Safe Digital Signatures
Google’s integration of NIST-standardized quantum-safe digital signatures (FIPS 204 and FIPS 205) into its Cloud Key Management Service marks a critical 2025 milestone for safeguarding data against quantum threats. Jennifer Fernick, Google’s Senior Staff Security Engineer, stresses: “While that future may be years away, those deploying long-lived roots-of-trust…should consider mitigation options now.” The implementation leverages CRYSTALS-Dilithium-based ML-DSA-65 (FIPS 204) and hash-based SLH-DSA-SHA2-128S (FIPS 205), open-sourced via BoringCrypto and Tink, offering early adopters a crucial edge. As quantum computers approach the capacity to break classical algorithms, these post-quantum cryptographic tools could determine the resilience of modern encryption frameworks. Early testing with Terraform and cloud workflows positions enterprises to transition seamlessly toward quantum-resistant security.
https://cybersecuritynews.com/google-unveils-quantum-safe-digital-signatures/
QT Sense raises €6M for quantum sensing
QT Sense, founded in 2024 at University Medical Center Groningen, raised €6M in 2025 to refine its Quantum Nuova single-cell platform. Co-founder and CEO Dr. Deepak Veeregowda says, “While other companies use quantum sensing principles, QT Sense’s focus on single-cell-level detection allows us to achieve much higher precision.” Their nanodiamond-based method tracks changes in emitted light, enabling early sepsis diagnostics, personalized cancer treatments, and drug discovery. Prof. Dr. Romana Schirhagl, an expert in single-cell quantum sensing, is chief scientific officer. Funding from QDNL Participations, angels, and Interreg Europe supports shipping its first device to University Medical Center Groningen.
Introducing Contralto-A: a QPU for quantum error correction
QuantWare’s Contralto-A, introduced in February 2025, is a 17-qubit QPU with tunable couplers. It supports up to distance-3 surface codes for quantum error correction, a vital step toward fault-tolerant devices. CEO Matthijs Rijlaarsdam explains, “Our customers want to scale towards error-corrected systems and … this need has been amplified following the recent announcements of the impressive results of Google’s Willow.” Contralto-A is backed by optional training from top hardware and algorithm experts, helping users develop competitive roadmaps. Crucially, it offers a clear upgrade path to larger, VIO-powered QPUs under a Quantum Open Architecture approach, ensuring flexible integrations and deeper access. Its arrival signals a tangible progression toward robust quantum error correction.
https://www.quantware.com/press/introducing-contralto-a-qpu-for-quantum-error-correction
Rigetti and D-Wave: Billionaire Israel Englander Pulls the Trigger on Two Top Quantum Computing Stocks
In 2025, quantum computing continues its rapid rise. Bill Gates says, “There is the possibility in the next three to five years…” while Jensen Huang suggests it may take 20 years. Billionaire Israel Englander, whose Millennium Management controls $69.5B, has invested heavily in Rigetti Computing and D-Wave Quantum. Rigetti’s end-to-end approach and government partnerships, including an IDIQ contract with the Air Force, underline its growing influence. Meanwhile, D-Wave’s focus on quantum annealing has attracted corporate giants like Volkswagen and Lockheed Martin. Alliance Global’s Brian Kinstlinger anticipates near-term catalysts, pointing to DARPA contracts and federal programs.
QuEra Announces Strategic Collaboration with Deloitte Tohmatsu to Accelerate Quantum Innovations in Japan
QuEra, a Boston-based neutral-atom quantum computing developer, unveils a 2025 collaboration with Deloitte Tohmatsu Group to foster quantum innovation in Japan. Takuya Kitagawa (QuEra) and Yoshihiro Maeda, Masayoshi Terabe (Deloitte Tohmatsu) will co-promote a 256-qubit neutral-atom system and cultivate quantum experts. “Quantum technology will be able to process and solve problems beyond the ability of classical computers, shortening what may take hundreds and thousands of years to mere months and hours,” says QuEra.
Quantum Machines Raises $170M as Its Customer Base Exceeds 50% of Companies Developing Quantum Computers
Quantum Machines (QM) has raised $170M in Series C funding, bringing its total to $280M, as more than half of quantum computing companies worldwide rely on its technology. With integrated real-time orchestration and a partnership for NVIDIA DGX Quantum, QM’s hybrid control drives scalable solutions for tens of thousands of qubits in 2025.
IonQ in buys quantum-safe encryption company for $250M
Quantum hardware pioneer IonQ has acquired ID Quantique, a specialist in quantum-safe encryption, for $250 million, according to Bloomberg. The discussions suggest IonQ’s drive to bolster post-quantum cybersecurity capabilities. ID Quantique’s solutions protect networks from potential quantum attacks and reflect the escalating importance of robust encryption in 2025’s quantum era. “The future is close,” says a top investor regarding IonQ’s upward trajectory, underscoring intensifying efforts to merge core quantum computation with cryptographically secure applications. https://markets.businessinsider.com/news/stocks/ionq-in-talks-to-buy-quantum-safe-encryption-company-for-250m-bloomberg-says-1034404943
Quantum Computing Skepticism, Part 2 : My View and Responses to Skeptical ClaimsâFeaturing John Preskill, Scott Aaronson, Dave Bacon, Aram Harrow, and Boaz Barak
Gil Kalai succinctly declares, “The question of whether quantum computation is possible is among the most important open scientific questions of our time.” He disputes scalable quantum computing’s feasibility, citing noise-sensitivity. Eminent researchers like John Preskill, Scott Aaronson, Dave Bacon, Aram Harrow, and Boaz Barak counter these claims. Microsoft’s announcement in 2025 about topological qubits prompts scrutiny from Sergey Frolov and Vincent Moudrik. Kalai’s proposition that quantum error-correction may be unattainable challenges claims of quantum supremacy, while offering new mathematical insights into nonstationary, low-depth distributions. Critically evaluating experiments and the potential replication crisis remains pivotal amid ongoing debates. The readiness to continuously test and refine arguments ultimately elevates the conversation on quantum computing’s future.
A manufacturable platform for photonic quantum computing
In 2025, the PsiQuantum Team presents “a manufacturable platform for quantum computing with photons,” demonstrating 99.98% ± 0.01% fidelity in photon-state preparation, 99.50% ± 0.25% Hong-Ou-Mandel interference, 99.22% ± 0.12% two-qubit fusion, and 99.72% ± 0.04% chip-to-chip fidelities. Built on silicon photonics, their approach addresses scaling obstacles by employing advanced integrated sources, detectors, and waveguides. “Here we introduce a manufacturable platform,” they declare, emphasizing its potential to push quantum computing toward industrial feasibility. Next-generation additions—low-loss silicon nitride waveguides, improved photon detection, and electro-optic phase shifters—mark a critical direction for solving current loss challenges. With these breakthroughs, photonic-based architectures gain traction in delivering more stable, large-scale quantum systems for real-world problem-solving.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08820-7
PsiQuantum Announces Omega, a Manufacturable Chipset for Photonic Quantum Computing
PsiQuantum unveils Omega, a new photonic quantum chipset described as “purpose-built for utility-scale quantum computing” in a paper published in Nature. The chipset achieves 99.98% single-qubit and 99.72% chip-to-chip fidelity, surpassing state-of-the-art performance. Analysis from the PsiQuantum team highlights “a simple, long-range chip-to-chip qubit interconnect,” termed “a key enabler to scale that has remained challenging for other technologies.” Manufactured at GlobalFoundries in New York, Omega incorporates superconducting materials and Barium Titanate for high-speed optical switching.
https://finance.yahoo.com/news/psiquantum-announces-omega-manufacturable-chipset-160000164.html
Horizon Quantum IPO
In 2025, Horizon Quantum Computing’s potential IPO through a SPAC, noted by Barron’s, spotlights growing confidence in quantum technology. The company aims to simplify quantum programming, potentially accelerating innovation in fields where massive computational power is crucial. Observers hint this public offering could catalyze mainstream adoption, especially with competing firms intensifying research. Though specific details remain scarce, the attention signals investor optimism about practical quantum breakthroughs. Institutions eye such developments to propel pharmaceuticals, finance, and beyond. Analysts highlight that continued funding will be vital for refining next-generation quantum systems.
https://www.barrons.com/articles/horizon-quantum-computing-stock-ipo-cc002609
Nu Quantum launches Quantum Datacenter Alliance with Cisco, NTTData, OQC, QphoX, Quantinuum, QuEra
Nu Quantum launched the Quantum Datacenter Alliance (QDA) on 25 February 2025, uniting Cisco, NTT Data, OQC, QphoX, Quantinuum, and QuEra to build data center-scale quantum computing. Carmen Palacios-Berraquero, CEO at Nu Quantum, calls cross-industry discussion essential to accelerate quantum’s maturity. Bill Gartner (Cisco) highlights quantum networking’s role in creating flexible, energy-efficient networks. Tom Winstanley (NTT DATA) sees a “material opportunity.” Simon Phillips (OQC) underscores combining data center infrastructure with quantum hardware. QphoX’s Simon Groeblacher stresses the challenge of networked scaling. Jenni Strabley (Quantinuum) embraces “potential technology paths” for fault-tolerant systems, while Yuval Boger (QuEra) sees neutral-atom technology as key to robust, scalable solutions. Together, they aim to explore distributed architectures, standardization, and interoperability in quantum computing.
SafeLogic Announces General Availability for CryptoComply PQ TLS
SafeLogic Inc. launched CryptoComply PQ TLS, featuring enterprise-class, CAVP-certified ML-KEM post-quantum cryptography for TLS connections. Combining FIPS 203–compliant ML-KEM key exchange with the company’s FIPS 140-3 certified classical encryption, it offers a quantum-resistant approach to securing data in transit. “Making TLS connections quantum-resistant is a quick win … for organizations migrating to PQC,” asserts SafeLogic. Available from 2025, this initiative underscores the urgent need for robust cryptographic solutions as quantum computing capacity expands. NIST’s involvement with ML-KEM standards adds credibility, ensuring alignment with global security frameworks. Enhanced TLS encryption without a complete ecosystem overhaul is a milestone in bridging classical systems with quantum capabilities.
Amazon announces Ocelot quantum chip
In 2025, Amazon Web Services introduced Ocelot, described by Fernando Brandão and Oskar Painter as “the first realization of a scalable architecture for bosonic error correction.” The prototype uses noise-biased gates and cat qubits, enabling drastically reduced overhead—possibly one-tenth of typical approaches—and bit-flip times near one second. Surpassing traditional qubit schemes, Ocelot paves the way for more efficient quantum systems. Achieving phase-flip durations of 20 microseconds, it addresses a billionfold error-rate gap that hinders real-world quantum algorithms. This innovation is significant because it targets resource efficiency, making scalable quantum computing more feasible. “A key to unlocking hardware-efficient error correction,” the Ocelot chip marks a crucial milestone in quantum engineering strides this year.
https://www.amazon.science/blog/amazon-announces-ocelot-quantum-chip
Hardware-efficient quantum error correction via concatenated bosonic qubits
In “Hardware-efficient quantum error correction via concatenated bosonic qubits,” Harald Putterman, Kyungjoo Noh, and colleagues present a new approach for harnessing bosonic cat qubits with a distance-5 repetition code in superconducting circuits. This method aims to reduce error overhead in 2025 quantum computing. “Our repetition code operates below threshold,” says Putterman. The experiment demonstrates an average error as low as 1.75% (distance-3) and 1.65% (distance-5), highlighting noise bias preservation. These findings confirm that concatenated bosonic qubits can significantly enhance fault tolerance while maintaining hardware efficiency. They suggest a more scalable path toward advancing quantum error correction, crucial for tackling complex computations with fewer physical qubits.
https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-025-08642-7
The Future of Quantum Computing Is Modular
In 2025, quantum computing pivots toward modular architectures, linking multiple smaller processors to overcome fabrication and connectivity hurdles. Edd Gent, IEEE Spectrum Contributing Editor, highlights Xanadu’s 12-qubit Aurora—35 photonic chips and 13 kilometers of optical fiber—published in Nature. “The only way to really scale up is through this modular networking approach,” says Xanadu CEO Christian Weedbrook. IBM targets connecting three 462-qubit Flamingo processors by year’s end, while IonQ advances optical entanglement for ion-based modules. These efforts underscore a shift from single-chip solutions to networked systems that could eventually support million-qubit devices and tackle real-world challenges in this rapidly evolving field.
https://spectrum.ieee.org/quantum-computers
Rigetti Computing Announces Strategic Collaboration Agreement with Quanta Computer to Accelerate Development and Commercialization of Superconducting Quantum Computing
Rigetti Computing (Nasdaq: RGTI) has formed a strategic collaboration with Quanta Computer to advance superconducting quantum computing. Both companies plan to invest over $100 million each across five years, while Quanta will also invest $35 million in Rigetti, pending regulatory approval. Rigetti CEO Dr. Subodh Kulkarni says, “Quanta’s investment in Rigetti will strengthen our leadership in this flourishing market.” This partnership, announced in 2025, merges Rigetti’s proven full-stack quantum-classical expertise with Quanta’s manufacturing prowess to accelerate commercial quantum solutions. By championing superconducting qubits, they aim to leverage faster gate speeds and established semiconductor manufacturing methods.
Quantum Financial Innovation
This paper consolidates and presents quantum computing research related to the financial sector. The finance applications considered in this study include portfolio optimization, fraud detection, and Monte Carlo methods for derivative pricing and risk calculation. In addition, we provide a comprehensive analysis of quantum computing’s applications and effects on blockchain technologies, particularly in relation to cryptocurrencies, which are central to financial technology research. As discussed in this study, quantum computing applications in finance are based on fundamental quantum physics principles and key quantum algorithms. This review aims to bridge the research gap between quantum computing and finance.
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s40854-025-00751-6
Paper: Comment on "InAs-Al hybrid devices passing the topological gap protocol", Microsoft Quantum, Phys. Rev. B 107, 245423 (2023)
In this 2025 commentary, Henry F. Legg scrutinizes Microsoft Quantum’s claim in Phys. Rev. B 107, 245423 (2023) that their InAs-Al hybrid devices “have a high probability of being in the topological phase.” He argues the topological gap protocol (TGP) “lacks a consistent definition of ‘gap’ or ‘topological’” and that measurement parameters varied widely, undermining reliability. This is crucial for quantum computing because topological superconductivity, anchored by Majorana bound states, promises more stable qubits. Legg contends that subsequent findings in Nature 638, 651-655 (2025), relying on the TGP, may be compromised. Heightened scrutiny of TGP-based claims reflects a broader push this year for standardized, transparent device validation in quantum research.
https://arxiv.org/abs/2502.19560v1
New Quantum Algorithm Boosts Classical Optimizers
In 2025, Maxime Dupont, Senior Quantum Researcher at Rigetti, introduced the quantum preconditioning algorithm on the 84-qubit Ankaa-3 system. It improved classical optimizers by up to 9x and 432x on tasks with 4,096 variables. “We show it can boost the performance of state-of-the-art classical solvers,” said Dupont. Testing on a 410-variable power grid problem yielded 99.95% accuracy in one-fourth the iterations. By reshaping input data before classical solving, quantum preconditioning may deliver faster convergence even amid hardware constraints. Many in the quantum community see potential for near-term utility, particularly as these machines mature.
https://medium.com/rigetti/new-quantum-algorithm-boosts-classical-optimizers-e191e28d4aff
Socionext announces strategic partnership with Google Quantum AI
On February 26, 2025, Socionext, a leading SoC developer, announced a strategic partnership with Google Quantum AI. They plan to co-develop advanced controller SoCs for Google’s next-generation quantum computing systems. Socionext’s press release states, “Socionext will utilize its expertise to deliver high-precision, high-quality semiconductor products that will contribute to Google Quantum AI’s quantum computing system and drive technological innovation.” This collaboration draws on Socionext’s proven semiconductor design, manufacturing, and integration capabilities, aiming to enhance system performance and scalability.