The latest on quantum computing in Europe, January 2023 – February 2024

(IN BRIEF) Europe has made significant progress in quantum computing with investments, partnerships, and innovations. Highlights include a €3.5 million investment in LioniX International by the University of Twente, and T-Systems offering cloud access to IBM’s quantum systems. Other developments include Eviden’s post-quantum cybersecurity products, ASML and Eindhoven University’s joint research plan, and Thales and SK Telecom’s partnership for post-quantum cryptography on 5G networks. Additionally, the European Commission initiated the “Nostradamus” partnership for quantum key distribution testing infrastructure, while Thales unveiled a PQC Starter Kit for businesses. These advancements signify Europe’s dedication to advancing quantum computing and cybersecurity.

(PRESS RELEASE) MUNICH, EINDHOVEN, TOULOUSE, CAMBRIDGE, PARIS, 22-Feb-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Europe has seen significant strides in the field of quantum computing over the past year (2023), marked by investments, partnerships, and groundbreaking innovations across the continent.

University of Twente, LioniX

In January 2023, the University of Twente announced a €3.5 million investment in LioniX International, bolstering the Dutch Deep Tech ecosystem and advancing microsystem solutions crucial for various industries. LioniX International specializes in customized microsystems and photonics, playing a pivotal role in technological advancements in healthcare, aerospace, defense, and telecommunications. The company has has developed the leading integrated photonics technology platform called TriPleX® which enables the development of applications ranging from AR/VR, (bio)sensing, telecom, to photonic quantum computing. Learn more…

T-Systems, IBM

Following this, T-Systems, in Bonn, expanded its quantum services in March 2023, offering cloud access to IBM’s quantum systems, including the powerful 127-qubit IBM Eagle processor, to lower barriers to quantum computing. This move democratized access to quantum resources, enabling businesses to explore and harness the potential of quantum computing for solving complex problems. Learn more…

Eviden

In April 2023, Eviden prepared its digital identity management products for the post-quantum era, enhancing cybersecurity readiness against quantum threats. The upgrade ensured that Eviden’s cybersecurity products were equipped to handle the evolving landscape of quantum computing and its potential impact on encryption. Furthermore, the company has also announced that its Trustway Proteccio HSM will soon support post-quantum algorithms in collaboration with CryptoNext Security. Learn more…

Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft

Meanwhile, Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft showcased digital healthcare solutions in Munich, demonstrating AI-based software for automated medical document processing. These solutions aimed to streamline processes in the healthcare industry, leading to more efficient and personalized patient care. The main concern of the Fraunhofer Institute for Cognitive Systems IKS is trust and efficiency when artificial intelligence is employed in medical care. The research team will be presenting new quantum computing approaches in the context of AI to improve the early detection of breast cancer. Learn more…

ASML, Eindhoven University of Technology

Eindhoven saw a strategic research plan in plasma physics, AI, and semiconductor lithography jointly developed by ASML and Eindhoven University of Technology in April 2023, aiming to create 40 PhD positions yearly. This collaboration aimed to drive innovation in semiconductor technology, essential for the advancement of quantum computing hardware. Learn more…

T-Systems, IQM Quantum Computers

T-Systems expanded its quantum landscape in July 2023 by partnering with IQM Quantum Computers, empowering customers with quantum solutions for machine learning, security, and optimization. This partnership broadened the range of quantum services available to T-Systems’ customers, fostering innovation and exploration in quantum computing applications. Learn more…

Airbus, BMW Group, Quantinuum

Collaboration between Airbus, BMW Group, and Quantinuum in July 2023 focused on quantum simulations to enhance fuel cell efficiency, showcasing the potential of quantum computing in industrial workflows. By leveraging quantum simulations, the collaboration aimed to drive advancements in sustainable energy technologies. Learn more…

University of Glasgow

In August 2023, the University of Glasgow initiated a research alliance in quantum technologies, addressing global challenges through interdisciplinary collaboration. This alliance aimed to accelerate research and innovation in quantum computing, with applications ranging from medical diagnostics to sustainable energy solutions. Learn more…

Eviden

Further advancements came in October 2023 when Eviden announced post-quantum support for its Trustway IP Protect IPSec network security solution, fortifying cybersecurity against quantum threats. This enhancement ensured that Eviden’s cybersecurity solutions remained resilient in the face of emerging quantum threats. Learn more…

Infineon Technologies

Infineon Technologies inaugurated a new quantum electronics lab near Munich in October 2023, dedicated to developing microelectronic circuits for stable and scalable quantum computers. The lab aimed to address key challenges in quantum computing hardware, paving the way for practical quantum computing applications. Learn more…

Bosch Ventures, Aleph Alpha

Bosch Ventures led a Series B investment round in AI startup Aleph Alpha in November 2023, aiming to revolutionize various sectors with generative AI applications. The investment underscored the potential of AI technologies, including quantum-inspired algorithms, to drive innovation across industries. Learn more…

University of Glasgow, TiC6G

Further in November 2023, The University of Glasgow has officially opened the Terahertz On-chip Circuit Test Cluster for 6G Communications and Beyond (TiC6G), a pioneering research lab focused on advancing 6G communications technologies funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC). Learn more…

Infineon Technologies, TRUSTECH 2023

Still in November 2023, Infineon has presented at TRUSTECH 2023 the world’s first PQC-enabled ePassport demonstrator, addressing quantum computing-era security requirements. Learn more…

T-Systems, Anaqor AG

Next month, in December 2023, a collaboration between T-Systems and Anaqor AG has seen the businesses’ entry into quantum technology. As part of the partnership, Anaqor AG’s PlanQK platform will offer ready-made quantum algorithms and applications, while T-Systems will provide access to real quantum computers and consulting services. Learn more…

Thales, SK Telecom

Moreover, Thales and SK Telecom partnered in December 2023 to implement post-quantum cryptography on 5G networks, bolstering user identity and privacy protection. This collaboration aimed to enhance the security of 5G networks against potential quantum threats, ensuring the integrity of communications infrastructure. Learn more…

The European Commission, Nostradamus, Deutsche Telekom

The European Commission initiated the “Nostradamus” partnership in January 2024, focusing on building a quantum key distribution testing infrastructure to enhance cybersecurity. This partnership aimed to strengthen Europe’s position in quantum technologies and secure critical infrastructure against quantum threats. Deutsche Telekom Leads the Consortium. Learn more here and here…

Thales

Thales unveiled the PQC Starter Kit in January 2024, offering businesses a solution to prepare for the post-quantum era and strengthen their security infrastructure. The kit provided businesses with tools and resources to assess and implement quantum-resistant encryption solutions, ensuring resilience against future quantum attacks. Learn more…

Thales, Mobile World Congress

In February 2024, Thales showcased its latest innovations at the Mobile World Congress, emphasizing its commitment to post-quantum cryptography and long-term data security. Thales highlighted its contributions to securing mobile and IoT connectivity, including advancements in eSIM management and 5G security. Learn more…

Fujitsu, QuTech

Lastly, researchers from Fujitsu and QuTech achieved a breakthrough in February 2024 by developing ultra-cold electronic circuits to control diamond-based quantum bits, paving the way for larger and more powerful quantum computers. This breakthrough addressed key challenges in quantum computing hardware, accelerating the development of practical quantum computing solutions. Learn more…

These developments underscore Europe’s commitment to advancing quantum computing, fostering innovation, and addressing societal challenges through collaborative efforts and technological advancements.

SOURCE: EuropaWire