IBM unveiled its first quantum computer in Illinois Friday at Hyde Park Labs, ushering in an era of potentially transformative technological advancement, with Chicago at the center of development.
Initially installed at the University of Chicago’s commercial research and development facility, the IBM Quantum System Two will eventually move to the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park rising up at the former U.S. Steel site on the city’s South Side.
“As IBM’s first quantum computer in Illinois, the system’s deployment marks a milestone for Illinois’ quantum community and builds on IBM’s partnerships across the state as we expand quantum research across academia and industries,” Arvind Krishna, chairman and CEO of IBM, said in a news release.
In December 2024, IBM and the state announced plans to build the National Quantum Algorithm Center at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, a computer research development envisioned as the nexus of the region’s quantum ecosystem.
Driven by the IBM Quantum Nighthawk, the most powerful quantum processor IBM has ever built, the new computer “will anchor the National Quantum Algorithm Center and further establish Illinois as the global destination for quantum innovation,” said Harley Johnson, CEO of the IQMP.
IBM Quantum System Two computers are up and running in New York, Japan and Spain, with more installations in the pipeline, including the new unit in Chicago, which is already in operation.
“It’s a huge deal, and we’re very excited about IBM’s Quantum System Two,” Johnson told the Tribune Friday. “It means that we have an instrument, a real tool that some of our application and end-user partners can access, and that’s critical for ultimately the adoption of quantum computing.”
The computer giant offered its first look Friday at its most advanced quantum computer at Hyde Park Labs, with Gov. JB Pritzker — a major quantum booster — the first in line for a sneak peek at a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
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A new IBM quantum computer is housed in the University of Chicago’s commercial research facility at Hyde Park Labs on Nov. 6, 2026. (Arthur Maiorella/Chicago Tribune)
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A new IBM quantum computer is housed in the University of Chicago’s commercial research facility at Hyde Park Labs on Nov. 6, 2026. (Arthur Maiorella/Chicago Tribune)
Tucked away in a first-floor room, the IBM Quantum System Two is housed in large steel and aluminum cabinets that look like an array of high-end refrigerators. That is no coincidence. The quantum computer system is kept at a temperature colder than outer space.
While the massive quantum computer represents the future of technology, its imposing bulk resembles a 1960s-era UNIVAC computer or something out of a vintage “Star Trek” episode. Its computing potential is certainly something out of a sci-fi script.
An emerging field, quantum technology operates at the subatomic level, building devices that detect, harness and leverage the tiniest particles to make potentially enormous advances in a wide range of applications. In time, quantum computers are expected to process calculations in seconds that would take current computers years.
Working with local corporate and academic partners, the physical installation of IBM’s first quantum computer in Illinois is expected to advance the development of new algorithms and applications to catalyze everything from drug discovery to more efficient power grids.
“It’s a powerful new tool for science, for industry, for the possibilities that honestly haven’t even been imagined yet,” Pritzker said to an audience of academic, civic and corporate leaders gathered to mark the occasion. “And importantly, it’s also a powerful new opportunity for economic growth here in Illinois.”
It is also expected to boost the quantum job development pipeline in Illinois as the nascent technology gains traction.
In April, IBM announced it would establish the FutureNow Chicago innovation center at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, with a commitment to create 750 jobs across AI, cybersecurity, data science, quantum computing and other technologies.
As part of the program, IBM will participate in a new City Colleges apprenticeship program to support 500 students to work at the innovation center over the next five years, hiring at least 180 apprentice alumni to reach its employment target.
Over time, the industry is projected to take a quantum leap in employment.
“I’m excited about this amazing piece of technology for several reasons, but the one that I’m most excited about by far, that machine, when I look at it, represents opportunities for people, jobs,” Brad Henderson, CEO of P33, a nonprofit Chicago technology and innovation hub, said at the event. “We forecasted by 2035 in Chicago, in the region, there will be 177,000 quantum jobs.”
IBM’s FutureNow Chicago center will be an anchor tenant at the IQMP’s Quantum Works building, which is expected to be completed by 2028. It will join PsiQuantum, a California-based tech company that announced in 2024 it was investing billions in the new site to build a commercially viable quantum computer.
Meanwhile, the state committed $500 million for the development of the quantum park, including $200 million for the build-out of a shared cryogenic plant needed to keep the quantum computers cool while operating.
Johnson said construction is proceeding apace at IQMP, with PsiQuantum set to open its building early next year. But the IBM Quantum System Two will probably have a few more years at Hyde Park Labs before its new home is ready at the former South Works site.
“We’re creating the space now, and we figure that this is two to three years away when we’ll have it ready to relocate,” Johnson said.
rchannick@chicagotribune.com
