NEC has quietly quit quantum computing hardware development, report claims

According to a report by Diamond Online, Japanese tech giant NEC has quietly exited the development of quantum computing hardware, despite its early historical contributions to the field. NEC was amon... Read original →

NEC's exit from quantum hardware development signals a deepening commercialization hurdle in the field. Technologically, the early superconducting qubit innovations pioneered by NEC have since been adopted by IBM and Google, and its departure weakens the ecosystem’s collaborative momentum. The shift of its researchers to Fujitsu may accelerate the latter’s quantum computing strategy, potentially reshaping competitive dynamics. From a risk and compliance standpoint, quantum technologies are tightly linked to advanced manufacturing and data security, prompting NEC’s strategic realignment toward lower-risk, core business areas. In the market, Fujitsu may leverage this gap to intensify its R&D efforts, aiming for systems with over 10,000 qubits by 2030. Looking ahead, the high capital intensity and uncertain returns in quantum hardware will likely deter further investment, pushing the industry toward algorithmic refinement and practical applications.