IBM and AMD join forces to integrate quantum computing and high-performance computing in a new hybrid architecture.
IBM and AMD are collaborating on the development of what they describe as ‘quantum-centric supercomputers.’ These systems combine quantum computing with traditional high-performance computing (HPC), supported by AI accelerators. The goal is to tackle complex problems that are beyond the reach of classic systems alone.
Hybrid Computing Models
Quantum computing works fundamentally differently from traditional IT. Classical computers calculate with bits that have a value of 0 or 1, while quantum computers use qubits that can assume multiple states simultaneously. This theoretically allows quantum computers to solve much larger computational problems, for example in modeling molecules, optimization, and data analysis.
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The collaboration between IBM and AMD aims to create open and scalable platforms that combine IBM’s quantum technology with AMD’s expertise in CPUs, GPUs, and FPGAs. These hybrid systems will combine quantum and classical computing power, with each part of a problem being addressed with the most suitable computing model. Quantum computers have not yet reached their potential due to high error sensitivity.
First Demonstration in 2025
A first demonstration is planned for later this year. IBM and AMD will show how quantum computers can work in tandem with AMD hardware to execute new algorithms. These are currently too complex for existing systems. The combination should also contribute to IBM’s long-term goal: a fault-tolerant quantum computer by the end of this decade.
The collaboration aligns with IBM’s previous initiatives to bring quantum and classical systems together, such as the connection with the Fugaku supercomputer in Japan. Meanwhile, AMD provides the computing power behind Frontier and El Capitan, currently the two fastest supercomputers in the world. Finally, both companies are exploring how open source platforms like Qiskit can accelerate the adoption of quantum algorithms in industry.