Korean telecommunications company SK Telecom has announced a strategic partnership with IonQ, a U.S. firm specializing in quantum computing. Together, they aim to advance the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum technology, enhancing AI-driven solutions. This collaboration promises improvements in processing time and power consumption, making AI solutions more efficient.
Combining AI with quantum computing allows for handling large data sets rapidly and efficiently. As part of this partnership, SK Telecom plans to integrate IonQ’s quantum capabilities into its services. These services include Personal AI Agent (PAA) platforms, AI data centers, and edge AI, optimizing performance and capabilities. The telecom giant also intends to adopt quantum cryptographic technologies to bolster their AI strategy.
Furthermore, to solidify this collaboration, both SK Telecom and SK Square are exchanging shares with IonQ, including their stakes in ID Quantique (IDQ), a global player in quantum cryptography. This move strengthens their partnership without disrupting existing commitments to IDQ. Additionally, SK Telecom aims to broaden its position in Korea’s quantum cryptography market through ongoing technological advancements.
Expressing the necessity of quantum technology, Ryu Young-sang, CEO of SK Telecom, remarked, “Quantum technology is not an option but a necessity for the advancement of AI.” This statement underscores their strategy of investment and collaboration to lead in the AI sector.
