IonQ Achieves Key Photonic Interconnect Milestone, Demonstrating Networked Quantum Systems Using Entanglement

IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), the leading quantum company, today announced it has achieved a foundational technical milestone by photonically interconnecting two independent trapped-ion quantum systems. This achievement marks the first demonstration of connected, commercial quantum computers, a critical step toward scaling quantum computation beyond a single processor.

By successfully linking two remote quantum systems, IonQ has validated the generation, transmission, and detection of photons used to enable quantum entanglement between two commercial IonQ computers at a distance for the first time. This major commercial result reinforces prior lab demonstrations and the theory of using photonic links to interconnect separated trapped-ion platforms while preserving the coherence necessary for advanced quantum operations.

“Achieving this photonic interconnect milestone is a pivotal moment in our roadmap as we move from individual quantum processors to distributed, networked architectures,” said Niccolo de Masi, IonQ’s CEO. “Scaling quantum computation beyond the limits of a single chip is essential for realizing a future quantum internet. This demonstration proves that our trapped-ion platform is uniquely suited for the high-fidelity networking required to solve the world’s most complex problems."

The successful demonstration of these network qubits underscores the repeatability and reliability of IonQ’s hardware as the company transitions toward fault-tolerant, modular systems.

This research was, in part, funded by the U.S. Government through an agreement with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL). The project highlights IonQ’s ongoing engagement with federal and defense partners to advance national security and scientific research capabilities including its advancement to Stage B of DARPA’s quantum benchmarking initiative; the launch of its IonQ Federal division; the appointment of former Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force, General John Raymond to its Board of Directors; and its world record achievement in quantum computing performance – 99.99% two-qubit gate performance.

About AFRL

The Air Force Research Laboratory, or AFRL, is the primary scientific research and development center for the Department of the Air Force. AFRL plays an integral role in leading the discovery, development and integration of affordable warfighting technologies for our air, space and cyberspace forces. With a workforce spanning across nine technology areas and 40 other operations around the globe, AFRL provides a diverse portfolio of science and technology ranging from fundamental to advanced research and technology development. For more information, visit www.afresearchlab.com.