Telefónica and IQM Quantum Computers have teamed up to deploy the first quantum computer in the Community of Madrid. IQM is a global leader in superconducting quantum computing. The initiative will strengthen the region’s scientific and technological capabilities. It will also drive real-world use cases for companies across the Community of Madrid.
IQM Spark Quantum Computer to Serve Research, Education, and Early-Stage Development
The Telefónica and IQM Spark quantum computer is an all-in-one solution. Designers built it specifically for research, education, and early-stage development. Teams will install the system at the Universidad Politécnica de Madrid before the end of 2026. Universities, hospitals, research centers, and start-ups will gain direct access to real quantum hardware. As a result, users can develop and test quantum algorithms. They can also build the expertise needed to explore future use cases.
This system will be the first quantum computer of its kind in the Community of Madrid. Consequently, the region will significantly increase its capacity to develop quantum capabilities locally. Users will also learn through hands-on experience. The machine will be the third system deployed in Spain through the IQM and Telefónica collaboration. It will join the other two quantum computers that the companies provide to CESGA (Galician Supercomputing Centre). Furthermore, the project positions the region as a benchmark for digital innovation.
Building a Quantum Ecosystem to Strengthen Madrid’s Digital Leadership
Once the Telefónica and IQM new quantum computers become operational, the Community of Madrid will hold greater capabilities to foster its own quantum ecosystem. This ecosystem will bring together all stakeholders who develop real-world use cases. Those use cases will deliver direct benefits to local industry. Moreover, the ecosystem will help attract talent. It will also strengthen Madrid’s position as a leading hub for advanced digital innovation. In addition, it will contribute to the development of European technological sovereignty.
Borja Ochoa, non-executive Chairman of Telefónica España and CEO of B2B, said: “This project marks another step forward in Telefónica’s close collaboration with the Community of Madrid in the deployment of quantum technologies, both in networks and in the encryption and protection of critical data in particularly sensitive sectors such as healthcare and security, and now also through the research opportunities offered by quantum computing. In line with its goal of becoming the best gateway to digital technologies for citizens, businesses and public administrations, Telefónica is the first operator in Spain to offer communications between data centers protected by the new post-quantum cryptography standards. Our company is also helping to build a national ecosystem by developing technologies and communications, specialized centers and strategic projects ranging from the development of cancer treatments to reducing the use of cardboard by packaging companies.”
Jan Goetz, CEO and Co-founder of IQM Quantum Computers, said: “By investing in its own quantum computer, the Community of Madrid is creating an infrastructure that will enable its researchers, students and industries to grow their capabilities over the long term. Quantum computing becomes truly valuable when it moves beyond remote laboratory environments and is placed directly in the hands of those working closest to the real-world challenges it can help address. This deal represents an important step forward for Madrid and for Europe in its ambition to lead the development of quantum computing.”
This project further expands IQM’s growing international footprint. IQM has already deployed full-stack quantum computers across Europe, Asia, and North America. Those deployments include computers supplied to some of the world’s leading supercomputing centers. Meanwhile, IQM drives the adoption of quantum computing in research, materials science, financial modeling, and other fields. The company gives end users direct ownership of the infrastructure they need. That ownership helps turn experimentation into real-world, high-impact applications. Telefónica and IQM
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News Source: Businesswire.com
