Insider Brief:
- KDDI, KDDI Research, Jij, QunaSys, and Waseda University formed a partnership to integrate AI and quantum computing, focusing on real-world applications and commercialization.
- The collaboration intends to develop an AI-Quantum Business Platform that connects AI with quantum computing, enabling non-experts to access quantum resources through a user-friendly interface.
- The partnership will focus on optimization and quantum chemistry applications, including improving telecommunications, logistics, manufacturing, and materials development for renewable energy.
- The initiative aligns with Japan’s Strategic Innovation Promotion Program and global quantum efforts, integrating with AIST’s hybrid quantum-AI testbed and collaborating with European quantum initiatives.
- Editor’s Note: The following has been translated from Japanese to English using ChatGPT.
PRESS RELEASE — KDDI Corporation, KDDI Research, Jij, QunaSys, and Waseda University have announced a partnership to accelerate quantum computing research and its integration with artificial intelligence (AI). The agreement, signed on February 27, 2025, aims to develop an AI-Quantum Business Platform that seamlessly connects AI and quantum computing, expanding real-world use cases and advancing the commercialization of quantum technologies.
The Role of Quantum Computing in AI and Optimization
As large language models (LLMs) and generative AI see widespread adoption, the computational limits of classical computers are becoming apparent. Quantum computing, which leverages quantum properties for simultaneous computations, has the potential to address complex optimization problems that classical computers struggle to solve.
By integrating AI with quantum computing, researchers aim to enhance data analysis, algorithm development, and overall AI performance. However, developing practical applications for quantum computing remains a challenge. The Japanese Cabinet Office’s “Quantum Future Society Vision” highlights the importance of fostering quantum use cases and making quantum technologies more accessible.
Partnership Goals and Contributions
Each partner brings unique expertise to this initiative:
- KDDI and KDDI Research have explored quantum applications in telecommunications, such as optimizing base station configurations to improve network performance and automating shift scheduling at customer service centers.
- Jij and QunaSys are leading research in optimization and quantum chemistry, areas expected to be among the first practical applications of quantum computing.
- Waseda University provides expertise in quantum optimization and algorithm development, particularly in enhancing accuracy and efficiency in quantum computations.
The collaboration will also align with Japan’s Strategic Innovation Promotion Program (SIP) for Advanced Quantum Technology, connecting with other universities, research institutions, and industry partners to accelerate quantum computing adoption.
Key Initiatives
- Developing Real-World Use Cases
- Identifying industries where quantum computing can be applied, with a focus on optimization (telecom, logistics, and manufacturing) and quantum chemistry (materials development for renewable energy).
- Building an AI-Quantum Business Platform
- Creating a seamless interface between AI and quantum computing, allowing non-experts to access quantum computing resources through a user-friendly API.
- Absorbing differences in computational models as AI and quantum computing technologies evolve, ensuring optimal resource selection for various applications.
- Global Collaboration and Expansion
- Integrating with Japan’s National Institute of Advanced Industrial Science and Technology (AIST) hybrid quantum-AI testbed for research and validation.
- Engaging with European quantum initiatives to expand international collaboration and business opportunities.
Roles of Each Partner
Organization | Role in the Partnership |
|---|---|
| KDDI | AI-Quantum Business Platform development, GPU infrastructure, industry use case exploration |
| KDDI Research | Platform technology development, collaboration with quantum hardware companies via SIP3 Quantum |
| Jij | Optimization-focused quantum applications, algorithm development, software integration |
| QunaSys | Quantum chemistry applications, algorithm and software development for chemical simulations |
| Waseda University | Research in quantum optimization, preprocessing and post-processing methods for quantum computations |
Future Outlook
Through this partnership, the five organizations will work to expand the practical applications of quantum computing, accelerate AI-quantum integration, and contribute to building a next-generation computing infrastructure. By combining expertise in telecommunications, AI, optimization, and quantum chemistry, the initiative seeks to unlock new economic and technological opportunities both in Japan and globally.
SOURCE: KDDI
