IBM and Pasqal have announced new advancements in their collaboration to develop integrated frameworks for supercomputing focused on quantum technology. This alliance will leverage Qiskit, recognized as one of the world’s most advanced quantum software platforms, with the goal of integrating quantum and classical resources for high-performance computing (HPC) workflows.
A Unified Model for Hybrid Computing
The initiative aims to create a unified programming model that simplifies interoperability between different types of quantum and classical computing hardware. This model will encompass IBM’s next-generation quantum computers, Pasqal’s neutral atom devices, and classical resources such as CPUs and GPUs. The goal is to enable users to select the most suitable hardware for each task within a cohesive workflow, enhancing performance and usability in complex applications.
Georges-Olivier Reymond, CEO and co-founder of Pasqal, emphasized the significance of this effort: “Our collaboration with IBM marks a crucial step toward integrating quantum resources with classical ones, allowing developers and end-users to choose the most appropriate resources for each specific computational task.”
Jay Gambetta, Vice President of IBM Quantum, highlighted that this model will be flexible and hardware-agnostic, opening the door to new algorithms and hybrid applications for quantum supercomputing: “With this unified approach, we will redefine the landscape of computing.”
Access to Pasqal Hardware via Qiskit
As the first step in this collaboration, users of the Qiskit software development kit (SDK) will soon gain access to Pasqal’s quantum hardware. This access will enable developers, researchers, and organizations to explore quantum applications in HPC environments with greater versatility.
Pasqal, known for developing quantum processors based on neutral atoms arranged in 2D and 3D arrays, seeks to leverage this technology to provide a practical quantum advantage that addresses real-world problems. Since its founding in 2019, Pasqal has raised over 140 million euros to advance in this field.
A Commitment to Innovation and Open Access
Both companies have reiterated their commitment to open access principles. This project aims not only to democratize the use of quantum technologies but also to foster collaboration between HPC centers and quantum hardware providers.
In a world where computational challenges are becoming increasingly complex, this collaboration promises to unlock new possibilities for research and development in areas such as artificial intelligence, materials simulation, and industrial optimization. IBM and Pasqal view quantum-centric supercomputing as a key tool for tackling global challenges and unlocking new applications in the HPC space.
About IBM and Pasqal
IBM is a leader in hybrid cloud solutions, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing, with clients in over 175 countries. Its hybrid cloud platform has transformed key sectors such as financial services, telecommunications, and healthcare.
Pasqal, on the other hand, specializes in quantum processors based on neutral atoms and is backed by a team founded by prominent researchers, including 2022 Nobel Prize winner in Physics, Alain Aspect.
