:

PSIQUANTUM LANDS $1B, TARGETS PHOTONIC QUANTUM CHIP

AI DESK1 MIN READ
WED, JUL 15, 2026

■ AI-SUMMARIZED FROM 1 SOURCE ▸ TIMELINE

PsiQuantum raised $1 billion in 2025 to build a quantum computer using photonic chips manufactured by GlobalFoundries. The effort has attracted backing from governments and the Pentagon.

The startup is pursuing a photonic approach to quantum computing, using light-based systems rather than superconducting qubits or trapped ions. GlobalFoundries, a major chipmaker, is manufacturing the photonic chips critical to the design. DARPA has taken close interest in PsiQuantum's progress, reflecting U.S. government priorities around quantum technology development. The Department of Defense views quantum computing as strategically important for cryptography, optimization, and simulation applications. PsiQuantum's funding round signals investor confidence in the photonic quantum path. The approach aims to leverage existing semiconductor manufacturing processes while working with fragile photons—a longstanding challenge in the field. The company joins other quantum startups racing to build practical, fault-tolerant systems. Success would represent a significant shift in quantum hardware development, moving beyond laboratory prototypes toward systems with real computational capability.

■ SOURCES

Techmeme

■ SUMMARY WRITTEN BY AI FROM THE LINKS ABOVE

■ MORE FROM THE HARDWARE DESK

Building data centers in space requires solving a critical engineering problem: how to cool servers without Earth's atmosphere. Current radiator technology used on the ISS is expensive and heavy, forcing startups to rethink thermal management from scratch.

JUST NOWIndustry Desk

Hugging Face has launched an open-source humanoid robot project featuring 3D-printable legs, targeting robotics researchers and builders. The platform aims to democratize bipedal robot development at an accessible price point.

JUST NOWIndustry Desk

Starlink has released its V5 residential dish, featuring a smaller form factor and improved energy efficiency. The update does not increase data speeds but addresses practical deployment concerns.

1H AGOIndustry Desk

Samsung has unveiled Flex Titanium, a new foldable display technology designed to reduce creasing and improve durability. The technology will debut in the upcoming Galaxy Z Fold 8 series.

1H AGOIndustry Desk

■ SUBSCRIBE TO THE DAILY BRIEF

ONE EMAIL, 5 STORIES, 06:00 UTC. UNSUBSCRIBE ANYTIME.