First physical quantum computer in Switzerland inaugurated

Quantum computing First physical quantum computer in Switzerland inaugurated

2025-02-11 Source: Quantum Basel | Translated by AI 3 min Reading Time

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QuantumBasel and uptownBasel have inaugurated Switzerland's first physical quantum computer: an IonQ Forte Enterprise System. This achievement, in partnership with IonQ, aims to strengthen QuantumBasel's position as a center for quantum computing and AI and enhance opportunities for industry and academia to engage with these transformative technologies.

IonQ has launched the first European quantum computer: IonQ's Forte system can be scaled up to 36 algorithmic qubits (#AQ) and can process over 34 billion possibilities simultaneously.(Image: IonQ) — IonQ has launched the first European quantum computer: IonQ's Forte system can be scaled up to 36 algorithmic qubits (#AQ) and can process over 34 billion possibilities simultaneously.
(Image: IonQ)

QuantumBasel is the first Swiss competence center for quantum computing and artificial intelligence that offers neutral access to a wide range of quantum computing hardware. Born from the vision of democratizing access to quantum computing through a global network of hardware providers, customers and partners soon benefited from extensive expertise, strategic consulting, and access to various quantum computing technologies. In June 2023, QuantumBasel partnered with IonQ to prepare for the construction of Switzerland's first commercial physical quantum computer and establish IonQ's European innovation center in uptownBasel.

A vision becomes reality

The inauguration of the physical quantum computer in Arlesheim embodies the vision of uptownBasel investors, Monique and Dr. Thomas Staehelin, to counter the looming deindustrialization of Switzerland by promoting innovation and creating sustainable opportunities. With the commissioning of the quantum computer, uptownBasel has taken a decisive step towards becoming a leading innovation campus for Industry 5.0.

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QuantumBasel enables companies, academic institutions, and start-ups to harness the potential of quantum computing and AI in areas such as simulation, optimization, and machine learning. By providing quantum access both via the cloud and through a physical quantum computer, QuantumBasel allows its customers and partners to securely develop innovative applications and help shape the future of technology.

The European Innovation Center of IonQ

With IonQ's decision to operate its first European quantum computer on the premises of uptownBasel, the concentration of technological know-how and innovative thinking in Arlesheim is further advanced.

Last year, IonQ's quantum physicists and engineers worked to create the optimal environment for operating the state-of-the-art Forte Enterprise quantum computer. IonQ's Forte system can scale up to 36 algorithmic qubits (#AQ) and process over 34 billion possibilities simultaneously. A future #AQ 64 system, which is part of the partnership between IonQ and QuantumBasel, underscores the shared commitment to long-term growth and technological advancement.

A new era of innovation

The inauguration of the quantum computer also marks the official opening of the IonQ European Innovation Center in uptownBasel. It paves the way for unprecedented advancements in quantum computing and artificial intelligence and strengthens Switzerland's position as a key player in cutting-edge technology.

About QuantumBasel

QuantumBasel is a competence center for quantum computing and AI, promoting access to commercial quantum computing to drive innovation. QuantumBasel places special emphasis on technological neutrality and is the first commercial quantum computer hub in Switzerland to provide access to hardware from IBM, D-Wave, and IonQ. The team of quantum and data scientists at QuantumBasel trains and supports companies, conducts projects in quantum computing and AI, and works closely with universities and academic institutions. Through an internationally networked ecosystem, QuantumBasel offers access to advanced know-how and technologies, enabling companies in industrial production, logistics, finance, energy, life sciences, and start-ups to realize innovations they couldn't develop independently.

About uptownBasel

uptownBasel is an international competence center for Industry 4.0—globally networked, anchored in Europe, and rooted in Basel. A development and production site for technology companies and other organizations is being established on the historic Schoren area in Arlesheim/BL near Basel, covering approximately 753,475 square feet. The main focuses are on industrial production, health, and logistics, as well as the cross-sectional function of digitalization. A total of 50 to 100 companies with up to 2500 jobs are planned to be established, with an investment volume of over 500 million francs (560 million US dollars). uptownBasel is made possible by the private ownership of the family Monique and Thomas Staehelin and is being realized by Fankhauser Arealentwicklungen.

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About IonQ

IonQ, Inc. is a leading company in the field of quantum computers, delivering high-performance systems capable of solving the world's largest and most complex commercial and scientific use cases. IonQ's current generation quantum computer, IonQ Forte, is the latest member of a series of state-of-the-art systems featuring over 36 algorithmic qubits. The company's innovative technology and rapid growth were recognized in the 2023 Next Big Things in Tech List by Fast Company and in the 2023 Technology Fast 500 List by Deloitte. IonQ is available through all major cloud providers, making quantum computing more accessible and effective than ever before.