QuEra Bets On Efficient, Affordable Quantum Computing

Quantum Computing in 2026: A Shift Towards Practical Applications

The world of quantum computing is poised to take a significant leap in 2026, with a growing focus on practical use cases and real-world applications. According to Zoran Krunic, Senior Manager of Data Science at Amgen Research, the key to unlocking the potential of quantum computing lies in identifying specific problems where it can outperform classical computing. This involves “pinpointing the specific problems where quantum computing may have a real advantage over classical computing,” Krunic explains.

A recent case study conducted by Amgen Research in collaboration with Merck, Deloitte, and QuEra Computing demonstrates the potential of quantum computing in addressing a common challenge in pharmaceutical research. By using a hybrid quantum-classical computing system, the team successfully made reliable predictions from small datasets, such as those found in early-stage clinical trials or rare-disease cohorts. The results showed that quantum computing can provide better predictions and smaller variability, thanks to its ability to capture the underlying data distribution presentation more effectively.

QuEra Computing: A Leader in Hybrid Quantum-Classical Computing

QuEra Computing, a company at the forefront of quantum computing, has been working on developing practical applications in fields like AI, energy, and biology. The company completed its first on-premises installation at Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology, integrating its system with an Nvidia supercomputer. This achievement paves the way for the development of high-performance computing (HPC) environments that can leverage the power of both classical and quantum resources.

QuEra’s approach to quantum computing is centered around the use of neutral atoms, which can be captured and manipulated using tiny laser beams. This approach allows for room-temperature operations, low power consumption, and a compact, energy-efficient footprint. According to QuEra’s executives, this approach can yield a small system powered by 30 kilowatts and costing a few million dollars, making it a more practical and affordable solution compared to other approaches.

Neutral-Atom Approach and Its Advantages

The neutral-atom approach used by QuEra offers several advantages, including high mobility, which facilitates the dynamic rearrangement of qubits for efficient algorithms and new error correction techniques. This approach also has the potential to reduce the space-time cost of practical fault-tolerant quantum computation by over an order of magnitude. QuEra’s executives believe that their approach can make quantum computing more accessible and affordable, paving the way for widespread adoption.

QuEra’s focus on practicality, affordability, and efficiency is reflected in its go-to-market approach, which emphasizes solving real-world problems where quantum computers can make a difference. The company has hired experts to develop algorithms in-house and work with end-users to understand their needs and develop solutions that can be deployed on QuEra’s hardware.

2026: A Year of Quantum Talent and Consolidation

The United Nations declared 2025 the International Year of Quantum Science and Technology, and the field is expected to continue growing in 2026. QuEra’s CEO, Andy Ory, believes that the company is creating a “flywheel” effect, with a significant increase in attendance at quantum-related conferences and a growing pool of talented professionals. The company raised $230 million in funding in 2025, and Ory is optimistic about the prospects for 2026.

Another prediction for 2026 is increased consolidation in the quantum computing industry, with the emergence of a peer group of “quantum primes.” This could lead to mergers and acquisitions, such as the potential merger of QuEra and Atom Computing, which is scheduled to deliver a full-stack quantum computer to the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark and the Novo Nordisk Foundation.

The Future of Quantum Computing: Utility and Affordability

The ultimate test of quantum computing is its utility and affordability. As Amgen’s Krunic notes, “Practical use cases are ultimately the test. Then you loop those experiences back into the quantum design and just keep iterating.” The future of quantum computing depends on its ability to provide real-world solutions and make a tangible impact on industries and society. With companies like QuEra leading the charge, 2026 is shaping up to be an exciting year for the field of quantum computing.