SK Telecom has formed a strategic partnership with IonQ, a U.S.-based quantum computing firm, to accelerate the integration of quantum technology into artificial intelligence (AI). The collaboration will enhance AI performance by leveraging quantum computing’s ability to process vast amounts of data faster and with lower power consumption than traditional systems. Under a memorandum of understanding (MOU), SK Telecom plans to apply IonQ’s quantum capabilities across its AI services, including personal AI assistants, AI data centers, and GPU-as-a-service (GPUaaS) solutions.
SK Telecom will acquire approximately a 3% stake in IonQ as part of this alliance by exchanging its holdings in Swiss quantum security firm ID Quantique (IDQ) for IonQ common shares. CEO Ryu Young-sang stated that quantum technology is essential for advancing AI, and the company plans to make proactive investments and establish strategic partnerships in emerging technologies.
SK Telecom has long recognized the importance of quantum-safe networking and the potential of quantum computing. The company first invested in Swiss quantum security firm ID Quantique (IDQ) in 2016 and later acquired a majority stake with a $65 million investment in 2018. Since then, SK Telecom has collaborated with IDQ to advance quantum-safe networking capabilities and industry standards.
However, with the latest partnership, SK Telecom is shifting its focus toward quantum computing by exchanging its entire 56.9% stake in IDQ for approximately 3.1% of IonQ’s shares. The transaction is estimated to be worth 330 billion won ($228.4 million) and is expected to be completed within nine months.
SK Telecom will continue working with IDQ in the quantum cryptography sector despite the share swap. The company plans to jointly develop quantum cryptography technologies and products. Meanwhile, IonQ, which will gain a controlling stake in IDQ through this deal, plans to expand its presence in the quantum-safe networking and sensing technology sectors. T
IonQ is widely recognized for its expertise in trapped ion quantum computing, an approach known for high stability and precision. Its technology uses electric fields to confine ions and manipulate them with lasers, making it a strong contender in the quantum computing race. Founded in 2015, IonQ became the world’s first publicly listed quantum computing company in 2021 and has received investments from major firms like Samsung Electronics, Amazon Web Services, Google Ventures, Lockheed Martin, and Airbus Ventures.
SK Telecom views the partnership with IonQ as crucial in preparing for the emerging quantum AI era. The company believes that quantum computing will be key in unlocking new AI capabilities and solving complex computational challenges that traditional systems cannot handle.
