IonQ has completed its acquisition of a controlling stake in ID Quantique (IDQ), a Swiss-based leader in quantum-safe networking and quantum detection systems. The deal, originally announced in February 2025, significantly enhances IonQ’s portfolio in quantum communications by adding IDQ’s quantum key distribution (QKD) systems, quantum random number generators (QRNGs), and single-photon detectors. The acquisition also brings nearly 300 granted and pending patents to IonQ, boosting its total IP portfolio to more than 900 patents.
The move strengthens IonQ’s leadership in end-to-end quantum technologies and expands its role in international efforts to build a scalable quantum internet. IDQ’s products are already deployed in national secure network initiatives across Singapore, South Korea, and the EU. Combined with IonQ’s high-performance quantum computing platforms and its recent acquisition of Qubitekk, the integration of IDQ provides a foundation for comprehensive quantum infrastructure offerings—spanning compute, communications, and detection.
IonQ’s recent government wins, including a $22 million contract with EPB in Tennessee, a U.S. Air Force Research Lab deployment in New York, and a quantum networking engagement with ARLIS, underscore its momentum. The company now positions itself as a global powerhouse in secure compute and communications, advancing critical infrastructure resilience through quantum-enabled solutions.
- IonQ acquires controlling stake in ID Quantique to expand secure quantum networking
- Adds QKD systems, QRNGs, and single-photon detectors to IonQ’s product lineup
- Acquisition includes nearly 300 patents, bringing IonQ’s IP total to over 900
- Builds on prior acquisition of Qubitekk and new government and commercial contracts
- Strengthens role in global quantum internet initiatives across Asia, Europe, and the U.S.
“The acquisition of IDQ expands upon IonQ’s significant advantage in the quantum networking market and positions us as the global powerhouse for secure compute and communications,” said Jordan Shapiro, President and GM, Quantum Networking at IonQ.
- ID Quantique (IDQ), headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, was founded in 2001 as a spin-off from the University of Geneva’s Group of Applied Physics. The company was established by Dr. Grégoire Ribordy, Professor Nicolas Gisin, and Professor Hugo Zbinden, who brought together expertise in quantum physics and engineering to pioneer advancements in quantum technologies.
- IDQ specializes in quantum-safe cryptography, quantum key distribution (QKD), quantum random number generation (QRNG), and single-photon detection systems. Its product portfolio includes the Cerberis XG QKD system, Quantis QRNG devices, and a range of single-photon detectors used in both commercial and research applications. These technologies have been deployed globally, including in national quantum networks in Singapore and South Korea, as well as initiatives within the European Union’s quantum communications infrastructure.
- Prior to its acquisition by IonQ in 2025, IDQ secured significant investments to advance its quantum technologies. In 2018, the company raised $65 million from SK Telecom to further develop its offerings for the telecom and IoT markets. That same year, Deutsche Telekom, through its strategic investment fund advised by Deutsche Telekom Capital Partners (DTCP), also invested in IDQ, strengthening its position in the European market.