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IBM and Fujitsu lead superconducting quantum computing as alternative technologies attract investment

Friday, February 27, 2026 at 10:22 AM

IBM and Fujitsu are currently leading in superconducting quantum computing operations, with IBM aiming to deploy large-scale systems by 2029. Alternative methods such as ion trap, neutral atom, optical, and semiconductor-based quantum computing are gaining significant investment due to scalability concerns with superconductors. In Japan, NTT is focusing on optical technologies while Riken remains a key academic contributor.

Context

IBM and Fujitsu currently lead the quantum computing landscape through superconducting technology, with IBM targeting the deployment of a large-scale, utility-scale quantum system by 2029. While these incumbents hold an early operational lead, the sector is reaching a critical inflection point as the physical limitations and cooling requirements of scaling superconducting processors become more apparent. This has triggered a shift in the hardware supply chain, as investors look for more scalable architectures that can operate at room temperature or with lower overhead. Consequently, significant investment is flowing toward alternative modalities, including ion traps, neutral atoms, and photonics. In Japan, NTT is leveraging its advanced optical expertise to position photonics-based quantum computing as a viable successor to the superconducting status quo. As the industry approaches 2026, the race is intensifying between established semiconductor giants and well-funded startups to solve the "scaling wall," making the diversification of quantum modalities a primary focus for long-term AI infrastructure portfolios.

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