IBM unveils new hybrid quantum computing architecture

The logo of us computer maker IBM is seen at the Mobile World Congress 2026 (MWC) at the Fira de Barcelona. Davide Bonaldo/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

IBM is betting on hybrid systems being the future of near-term quantum computing, introducing a new computing architecture that uses both classical and quantum-specific technology to apply the benefits of quantum-based capabilities to current problems. 

Announced on Thursday, the new architecture combines quantum hardware with leading classical processing and graphics processing units — along with larger infrastructure like high-speed networks and shared digital storage — to leverage the promised benefits of quantum advantage to modern problems. 

Images shared with Nextgov/FCW depict the new architecture as being underpinned by the combination of classical CPUs and GPUs that work alongside IBM’s quantum compute systems, such as its recent large-scale processors, Starling and Heron. It connects to a quantum management resource interface that sits ...