Companies aim to merge AI accelerators, quantum computers, & high-performance computing to help solve a wide range of the most difficult problems
IBM and AMD have announced a strategic collaboration to develop next-generation computing architectures that merge quantum computing with high-performance computing (HPC). This approach, referred to as quantum-centric supercomputing, aims to unlock new levels of performance by combining IBM’s expertise in building the world’s most advanced quantum computers and software with AMD’s leadership in high-performance computing and AI acceleration technologies.
Quantum computing represents a fundamentally new way to process information. Unlike classical computers, which operate with bits representing either a zero or one, quantum computers use qubits governed by the principles of quantum mechanics. This unique capability creates an exponentially larger computational space, enabling researchers to tackle highly complex challenges that are currently beyond the scope of classical computing alone. Potential applications span drug discovery, materials research, optimization, logistics, and other data-intensive fields.
“Quantum computing will simulate the natural world and represent information in an entirely new way,” said Arvind Krishna, Chairman and CEO, IBM. “By exploring how quantum computers from IBM and the advanced high-performance compute technologies of AMD can work together, we will build a powerful hybrid model that pushes past the limits of traditional computing.”
“High-performance computing is the foundation for solving the world’s most important challenges,” said Dr. Lisa Su, Chair and CEO of AMD. “As we partner with IBM to explore the convergence of high-performance computing and quantum technologies, we see tremendous opportunities to accelerate discovery and innovation.”
The quantum-centric supercomputing model integrates quantum processors with powerful HPC and AI infrastructure typically powered by CPUs, GPUs, and other compute engines. In this hybrid approach, each part of a problem is assigned to the computing paradigm best equipped to solve it. For example, quantum computers could model atomic and molecular interactions, while AI-driven supercomputers handle large-scale data analysis. Working together, these systems could address real-world challenges at unmatched speed and scale.
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As part of this initiative, IBM and AMD are evaluating how AMD CPUs, GPUs, and FPGAs can be combined with IBM quantum systems to accelerate emerging algorithms that are currently beyond the capability of either platform alone. This work also supports IBM’s roadmap to deliver fault-tolerant quantum computing by the end of the decade, with AMD technologies playing a potential role in real-time error correction a critical component in achieving reliable large-scale quantum systems.
An initial demonstration is planned for later this year to showcase how IBM quantum computers can interoperate with AMD hardware in hybrid quantum-classical workflows. Both companies will also explore leveraging open-source ecosystems such as Qiskit to drive new algorithm development and promote broader adoption of quantum-centric supercomputing across industries.
IBM has already taken significant steps toward integrating quantum and classical computing, including its recent collaboration with RIKEN to directly link IBM’s modular Quantum System Two with Fugaku one of the world’s fastest classical supercomputers. Additional partnerships with organizations such as Cleveland Clinic, the Basque Government, and Lockheed Martin highlight the growing momentum behind hybrid computing models to solve problems classical systems alone cannot address.
AMD continues to lead in high-performance computing innovation. Its CPUs and GPUs power Frontier at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Oak Ridge National Laboratory, the first supercomputer to officially surpass the exascale threshold. AMD EPYC™ CPUs and AMD Instinct™ GPUs also drive El Capitan at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, giving AMD the distinction of powering the world’s two fastest supercomputers, according to the TOP500 list. Beyond HPC, AMD’s processors, GPUs, and open-source software also support cutting-edge generative AI solutions for enterprises and cloud providers worldwide.
