Quandela takes the quantum computer from lab to fab for first time

By Team IO

Quandela, the French pioneer of the photonic quantum computer, inaugurated the first factory for quantum computers in Europe. The factory is located in Massy, just south of Paris. The transition from basic research to industrialization is an important step for quantum physics. So reports the Dutch embassy in Paris.

Bpifrance contributes €9.5 million

The French government generously supports the project, which wants to remain at the forefront of Europe in this strategic field. It has invested €9.5 million through Bpifrance under the project called “Première Usine,” part of the France 2030 plan.

Quandela, a spin-off of the CNRS, has been developing a quantum computer since 2017. While others take a matter-based approach using electrons, atoms, or ions, Quandela focuses on light to produce photonic qubits.

In 2021, the company raised 15 million euros and published its Percéval programming and simulation software for photonic computers the following year. Since the fall of 2022, the company has offered cloud access to Ascella, its first 6-qubit quantum computer, for which it says it has users worldwide.

France takes next step in quantum technology with Dutch processor

The Dutch quantum photonics company, QuiX, have just sold a plug-and-lay quantum processor. It will power a quantum computer in 2022.

In March 2023, the company received its first order for its quantum computer from OVHcloud, kicking off the marketing of its MosaiQ computer, the first version of which offers two qubits of computing power and can be upgraded thanks to its modular design. Delivery is scheduled for October. “The next logical step for Quandela was to industrialize the computer,” explained Valérian Giesz, co-founder and CEO of Quandela.

Three machines in six months

With this new factory, the French start-up can deliver more quantum computers for on-site sales and its cloud-based quantum platform, allowing a growing number of manufacturers to take advantage of this technology. Given the complexity of manufacturing and the very high precision required for assembly, Quandela cannot afford large production runs. Quandela will produce three machines in six months instead of one currently.

The company says that this new production facility will produce computers and allow it to develop more powerful quantum systems to find new industrial applications. Simultaneously with the plant’s opening, Quandela is finalizing the installation of the clean room on the Saclay plateau, dedicated to producing the most critical components.