Intel buys Israeli quantum computing co Classiq for $2.2b– en.globes.co.il

Intel has announced the acquisition of Israeli quantum computing software company Classiq for $2.2 billion. This is the biggest-ever acquisition of a quantum computing company and the second biggest acquisition in Israel by Intel after the $15.3 billion acquisition of Mobileye in 2017. Tel Aviv-based Classiq has developed an operating system for quantum computers.

This acquisition represents not only a gamble for Intel, which is mainly focused on developing and manufacturing core chips for computers and servers, on the quantum computing market, but also an entry into the realm of operating systems. In many respects, the deal is reminiscent of Google’s acquisition of Android, which was a pioneering operating system for mobile phones, enabling Google to gain a foothold in a vast number of mobile devices during the mobile revolution and, in the process, to exert control over aspects of their hardware.

Classiq, founded by CEO Nir Minerbi, along with Yehuda and Amir Naveh (a father and son serving as CTO and CPO respectively), will become Intel’s global development center for quantum computing. Beyond being the largest quantum-related acquisition in history, this deal marks the acquisition of an Israeli quantum company and represents the first time a big tech firm has purchased technology in this sector.