planqc
Overview
Uses neutral atoms in optical lattices (not optical tweezers) — a fundamentally different trapping approach that can naturally hold thousands of atoms in regular arrays, potentially offering a faster path to massive qubit counts.
0Key Milestones
- 2022: Spun out of Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics (MPQ)
- 2023: Raised €50M Series A
- 2025: Partnership with German Aerospace Center (DLR) and Fraunhofer
- 2026: Plans to deliver systems with 1,000+ qubits
Technology Approach
While QuEra and Pasqal use optical tweezers (focused laser beams that hold individual atoms), planqc uses optical lattices — standing waves of light that create a periodic array of trapping sites. Think of it as a 3D egg carton for atoms.
The advantage: optical lattices can naturally hold thousands of atoms in regular arrays without individually addressing each trapping site. This could offer a faster path to massive qubit counts, since the lattice scales by simply increasing the laser power, rather than adding more individually controlled tweezers.
Founded by researchers from one of the world’s leading quantum optics labs (Max Planck Institute), planqc is part of Germany’s growing quantum computing cluster alongside IQM, Eleqtron, and Kiutra.
Competitive Position
Strengths: Novel approach within neutral atoms. Strong MPQ research pedigree. Significant EU funding. DLR and Fraunhofer partnerships signal government/industrial interest.
Challenges: Optical lattice approach is less proven than optical tweezers for gate-based quantum computing. No public qubit count or fidelity data. Competing against well-funded QuEra ($300M+) and Pasqal (€200M+).