IonQ to acquire ID Quantique to form the world’s largest quantum-safe networks and quantum networking provider
Geneva, Switzerland, 26 February 2025
Today, ID Quantique (IDQ), SK Group, Korea’s leading ICT company and IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), a leader in quantum computing and networking, announced that they have reached a definitive agreement for IonQ to acquire a controlling stake of IDQ, a global leader in quantum safe networking and quantum detection systems, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland and with offices in Seoul, South Korea, Vienna, Austria and Boston, USA.
As part of the transaction, IonQ will join forces with IDQ’s team, pioneering products, and growing book of quantum networking business into its global quantum ecosystem. The investment will strengthen ID Quantique’s position as the global leader in quantum safe cryptography and quantum detection systems. It will also contribute to accelerating the development of global quantum-safe networks and quantum networking markets and partnerships, especially in the USA.
Quantum computing represents a groundbreaking innovation that has the potential to be even more transformative than the current surge in artificial intelligence. It promises to deliver significant advancements by tackling complex problems that current technologies cannot solve, offering transformative applications across various sectors, including defense, finance, and energy.
IonQ and IDQ believe that the real potential of quantum computers will emerge through quantum networks that are set to become a vital infrastructure which will serve as the backbone of the future quantum internet. Interconnecting quantum computers will enhance the overall performance and value of quantum computing. Building these quantum networks require secure communication. IonQ’s architecture intends to use photonic interconnects to create a more powerful cluster by linking multiple quantum computers. Combining IonQ and IDQ technologies will enable the foundation of such robust quantum clusters.
The closing of the acquisition is expected during the second quarter of 2025, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions.
“ID Quantique is excited to be joining the IonQ portfolio, where we will combine forces to be the preeminent provider of quantum networking technology worldwide. IonQ has been a pioneer in the quantum industry, developing powerful computing systems combined with dedication to quantum networking – a vital infrastructure underpinning the entire global economy. We foresee that the combination of IDQ and IonQ will be powerful, accretive, and impactful worldwide.”
Grégoire Ribordy, Co-Founder and CEO of IDQ
“This strategic transaction and the expertise of ID Quantique takes IonQ at the forefront of quantum networking commercialization and cements our role as a global leader in next generation secure communications. Once finalized, we expect that our intended strategic partnership with SK Telecom, one of the most powerful technology companies in Asia, will significantly enhance the distribution of IonQ quantum technology, leading to many commercial and technical opportunities.”
Peter Chapman, Executive Chairman of IonQ
“Our intention is to establish a comprehensive strategic partnership between our companies for both quantum computing and networking. We are eager and look forward to collaborating with IonQ in the Korean market across the full spectrum of quantum business and technology and see this transaction as a strong foundation for future opportunities and innovation together.”
Young Sang Ryu, President and CEO of SK Telecom
About IonQ
IonQ, Inc. is a leader in the quantum computing and networking industries, delivering high-performance systems aimed at solving the world’s largest and most complex commercial and research use cases. IonQ’s current generation quantum computers, IonQ Forte and IonQ Forte Enterprise, are the latest in a line of cutting-edge systems, boasting 36 algorithmic qubits. The company’s innovative technology and rapid growth were recognized in Newsweek’s 2025 Excellence Index 1000, Forbes’ 2025 Most Successful Mid-Cap Companies list, and Built In’s 2025 100 Best Midsize Places to Work in Washington DC and Seattle, respectively. Available through all major cloud providers, IonQ is making quantum computing more accessible and impactful than ever before. Learn more at IonQ.com.
About ID Quantique
Founded in 2001, ID Quantique is the world leader in quantum-safe crypto solutions, designed to protect data for the future. The company designs and commercializes quantum random number generators, quantum-safe network solutions based on quantum key distribution solutions, management and services to enterprises and government organizations globally. IDQ also provides quantum detection systems, which help customers to solve complex scientific and industrial problems. Its products are used by governments, enterprises, and industrial customers and by academic research labs in more than 60 countries and on every continent. For more information, please visit www.idquantique.com.
