Intel Announces Acquisition of Quantum Software Firm Classiq to Build Full-Stack Platform
Intel signs definitive agreement to acquire Classiq, combining quantum algorithm synthesis software with Intel's spin-qubit hardware, with closing expected in H1 2027.
U.S. semiconductor giant Intel announced on October 26, 2026, that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Israeli quantum software company Classiq. The acquisition aims to combine Classiq’s automated quantum circuit design platform with Intel’s existing silicon spin-qubit hardware and software capabilities to create a user-friendly, full-stack quantum computing platform.
Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan stated that Intel has made remarkable progress in quantum computing over the past decade, and joining forces with Classiq transforms Intel’s Quantum Computing Group into a full-stack quantum computing business. Nir Minerbi, co-founder and CEO of Classiq, noted that the collaboration will help unlock the benefits of quantum computing and accelerate its adoption.
Classiq’s core technology is its quantum algorithm synthesis platform, which enables developers to create scalable quantum applications without requiring deep expertise in underlying hardware. Intel compares this to the role Electronic Design Automation (EDA) and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software played in transforming classical chip design, arguing that such high-level abstraction is essential for quantum computing to scale beyond custom hand-crafted circuits to become a mainstream computing platform.
Following the close of the transaction, Intel intends to continue supporting Classiq’s existing multi-platform integrations, ensuring a modality- and hardware-agnostic software solution. The deal is subject to regulatory approvals and other customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the first half of 2027. Until then, Intel and Classiq will continue to operate as separate, independent companies.