News
Tencent continues quantum computing operations following exits by Baidu and Alibaba
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at 09:14 AM
Baidu and Alibaba exited the quantum computing space in late 2023 and early 2024. While competitors have pulled back, Tencent reportedly continues to maintain its quantum computing unit.
Context
In a significant shift within China’s technology landscape, Tencent remains the last major private internet giant maintaining an active internal quantum research division. This follows the high-profile exits of Baidu and Alibaba, who shuttered their labs in Q4 2023 and Q1 2024, respectively. Both companies donated their experimental equipment and 36-qubit hardware to state-backed institutions like the Beijing Academy of Quantum Information Sciences, signaling a broader trend toward government-coordinated R&D in strategic deep-tech sectors.
While its peers have retreated, Tencent Quantum Lab continues to integrate quantum-classical hybrid simulations and quantum-resistant cryptography into its cloud infrastructure. As of April 2026, the lab is focused on securing server-side AI infrastructure and evaluating the timeline for quantum computers to challenge RSA-2048 encryption. By maintaining these operations, Tencent differentiates itself as a private-sector leader in the race to develop NISQ-era software frameworks and photonic-integrated quantum processors.
Sources (11)
Tencent Xuanwu Lab Quantum Computing Progress - PQC InfoHubTencent 腾讯China Mobile Spearheads Launch of Key Lab for Quantum ...Quantum Threat TImeline Report 202412+ Chinese Quantum Computing Companies Leading the National Race [2026]Baidu and Alibaba plan to quit quantum computing research – Physics WorldChina’s Quantum Gamble - by Lily Ottinger - ChinaTalk
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