Merging AI accelerators, quantum computing, and high-performance computing to address the world’s toughest challenges
IBM and AMD announced a strategic collaboration to develop next-generation computing architectures that combine quantum systems with advanced high-performance computing (HPC) and AI accelerators. The initiative, described as quantum-centric supercomputing, aims to unlock new frontiers in scientific discovery and help solve some of the world’s most complex challenges.
This partnership brings together IBM’s leadership in quantum computing and software with AMD’s expertise in HPC and AI technologies, including CPUs, GPUs, and FPGAs. By combining these complementary strengths, the companies aim to develop scalable, hybrid platforms that can accelerate innovation across various industries.
A Hybrid Approach to Discovery
Quantum computing introduces a fundamentally different way of representing and processing information. Unlike classical bits, quantum bits, or qubits, can exist in multiple states simultaneously, enabling entirely new approaches to problem-solving. When paired with classical supercomputing and AI, quantum systems could dramatically extend computational capabilities.
In a hybrid architecture, quantum computers can be utilized to simulate molecular behavior for the discovery of drugs and materials. At the same time, AMD-powered classical supercomputers manage massive-scale data analysis and provide AI-driven insights. Together, these systems promise breakthroughs in areas such as optimization, logistics, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare.
Executive Perspectives
“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 IBM quantum systems and AMD’s advanced HPC technologies can work together, we are building a hybrid model that will push 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, AMD. “By partnering with IBM to explore the convergence of HPC and quantum, we see tremendous opportunities to accelerate discovery and innovation.”
Roadmap & Open Innovation
IBM and AMD plan to demonstrate hybrid quantum-classical workflows later this year, showcasing how AMD technologies can be integrated with IBM quantum systems. The effort also supports IBM’s roadmap toward fault-tolerant quantum computing, with AMD’s compute engines expected to play a role in real-time error correction.
The companies will also leverage open-source ecosystems, including IBM’s Qiskit, to encourage broad participation in algorithm development and accelerate adoption of quantum-centric supercomputing across research and industry.
Building On Global Leadership
The collaboration builds on IBM’s recent initiatives to integrate quantum and classical systems, such as its partnership with RIKEN to connect IBM Quantum System Two with the Fugaku supercomputer, and work with organizations including the Cleveland Clinic, Lockheed Martin, and the Basque Government.
For AMD, the announcement extends its leadership role in HPC and AI. AMD EPYC™ CPUs and AMD Instinct™ GPUs currently power Frontier and El Capitan, the two fastest supercomputers in the world, and are widely deployed across enterprise AI and cloud workloads.
