Intel to Acquire Quantum Computing Software Company Classiq

Intel is acquiring quantum computing software company Classiq to build a full-stack quantum computing platform integrating hardware and development tools.

Intel said on Oct. 26 local time that it had signed a definitive agreement to acquire Classiq.

Classiq has developed an integrated software platform that is independent of specific qubit technologies or hardware architectures. When users provide instructions, the platform automatically designs quantum circuits optimized for the qubit characteristics of each hardware system. It serves a role similar to electronic design automation (EDA) tools used in semiconductor circuit design.

Intel plans to combine its proprietary spin-qubit manufacturing technology with Classiq’s platform to create a user-friendly, full-stack quantum computing system. Spin qubits process quantum information using the spin of electrons. Through the integration, Intel aims to accelerate the commercialization of quantum processing units (QPUs) that customers can use in practical applications. The company plans to expand its product portfolio beyond central processing units (CPUs), graphics processing units (GPUs) and application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs) to include QPUs.