Amazon has recently partnered with Finland’s IQM, positioning IQM as the first quantum computing provider in the European Union for the tech giant. This collaboration signifies a crucial advancement for Amazon in the quantum computing space, aiming to utilize IQM’s state-of-the-art technology to enhance services and drive innovation across various sectors. The partnership underscores the increasing significance of quantum computing in shaping the future of technology and highlights Amazon’s dedication to leading in this emerging field.
IQM Garnet: Accessible via Amazon Web Services
IQM Garnet, a 20-qubit quantum processing unit (QPU), is now accessible through Amazon Web Services (AWS) in the European Union, marking a significant milestone in quantum computing. IQM, a quantum hardware startup based outside Helsinki, Finland, has become the first provider of an AWS quantum processor in the EU. This development also marks the debut of Amazon’s quantum services to end-users in its AWS Europe (Stockholm) region. It is the first time IQM’s quantum computers will be available on-demand through the cloud, with AWS’s flexible pay-as-you-go pricing model.
Jan Goetz, co-CEO and co-founder at IQM, expressed excitement about the collaboration with Amazon, emphasizing the opportunity to expand globally and collaborate with leading end-users worldwide. The joint venture is seen as a significant advancement in cloud quantum computing, enabling customers to explore new algorithms and applications to drive business growth.
Affordability and Innovation for Quantum Algorithm Startups
While current quantum computers may still be considered “noisy” and error-prone, the rapid advancements in quantum technology are paving the way for future progress. Organizations are now focusing on becoming “quantum-ready” to adapt to the upcoming quantum era. Smaller qubit systems serve as training grounds for developers working on error correction solutions and quantum algorithms.
IQM Garnet is widely used by quantum algorithm engineers to develop intellectual property related to quantum compilers, algorithms, and error correction mechanisms. The platform offers a highly uniform design and cutting-edge fidelities, allowing users to explore algorithms across the entire chip efficiently. Additionally, IQM offers Garnet at affordable rates, catering to the burgeoning quantum algorithm startup ecosystem.
Founded in 2018, IQM is a leading developer of superconducting qubits in Europe. The company plans to introduce a high-fidelity IQM Radiance 54-qubit quantum computer at the beginning of next year, expanding the capabilities of quantum algorithms beyond current limitations. By 2026, IQM aims to launch IQM Radiance with 150 qubits, enabling significant advancements in commercial algorithm applications in finance, automotive, life sciences, and chemicals industries.