Quantum Computing Inc. (QCi)
Overview
Thin-film lithium niobate photonic quantum systems operating at room temperature. Focuses on quantum-secured communications (QKD), quantum sensing, and quantum optimisation. One of the few companies with deployed quantum security products.
0Key Milestones
- 2018: Founded, initially focused on quantum-ready software
- 2022: Pivoted to photonic quantum hardware
- 2024: Demonstrated quantum-secured optical networking
- 2026: Partnered with Ciena for quantum-secured communications at OFC 2026 (1.6 Tb/s)
- 2026: Demonstrated layered security: QKD + post-quantum cryptography + Quantum Zero Knowledge Proof
Technology Approach
QCi uses thin-film lithium niobate photonics — a room-temperature photonic platform that avoids the cryogenic cooling required by superconducting systems. Their primary commercial focus is quantum-secured communications, where they’ve demonstrated a layered security approach combining:
- Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) with entangled photons
- NIST-certified post-quantum cryptography (PQC)
- Quantum Identity Authentication using Quantum Zero Knowledge Proof
The March 2026 demonstration with Ciena at OFC scaled this to 1.6 Tb/s on commercial optical networking equipment — a practical deployment model rather than a lab experiment.
Competitive Position
Strengths: Publicly traded. Room-temperature operation. Real deployed security products. Ciena partnership gives access to major telecom infrastructure.
Challenges: Quantum security is a niche market compared to quantum computing. Photonic computing capabilities are limited. Stock has been volatile.