Foxconn Eyes Becoming a Leading Manufacturer of Quantum Computers

Foxconn is preparing to explore a new opportunity in the technology industry as interest in quantum computing continues to grow. The Taiwanese electronics manufacturer wants to establish itself as the world’s biggest producer of quantum computers by building machines for businesses developing the technology.

Speaking to CNBC, Young Liu, the chairman of the company, explained that the company plans to work with quantum technology developers and manufacture equipment based on their designs. This means Foxconn would concentrate on production instead of creating and owning the technology itself. The arrangement would allow technology developers to focus on improving their products while relying on Foxconn’s manufacturing capabilities.

The company’s interest in this market builds on its long history in electronics production. Established in Taiwan in 1974 by Terry Gou, Foxconn has grown into a major global manufacturer, supplying electronic products to businesses around the world. Its entry into quantum computing could create another source of growth as demand for advanced technology increases.

Despite its ambitions, Foxconn recognizes that the industry is not yet ready for widespread commercial use. Liu believes quantum computing will require at least two additional years before it becomes commercially viable. He explained that this waiting period is not a problem affecting Foxconn alone but one shared by companies across the industry. Further progress is needed before the technology can be used profitably on a wider scale.

Liu also explained that quantum machines will serve a different purpose from the computers people currently use. Rather than handling everyday computing activities, they will focus on calculations that require specialized processing. Conventional computers will continue using CPUs and GPUs to manage ordinary operations and process large volumes of information. Quantum systems are expected to provide extra computing power when dealing with particularly difficult problems.

This approach could allow organizations to combine conventional and quantum technology, depending on the nature of the work involved. Certain complicated calculations that may take traditional machines considerable time could potentially be completed much faster using quantum systems. Liu believes some applications could benefit from dramatic improvements in processing speed. However, these expected gains will need to be proven through actual use.

Production expenses also present a major obstacle. Quantum computers require specialized equipment, and some systems must operate at extremely low temperatures. Liu pointed to the cost of individual components as an example, revealing that certain cables used in quantum systems can exceed $1,000. These requirements increase the financial burden of building and maintaining the machines.

For Foxconn, the opportunity is to become a major manufacturing partner as quantum technology moves closer to commercial use. Its production experience could give it an advantage in supplying companies seeking to bring their innovations to market.

Analysts are wondering what quantum computing firms like D-Wave Quantum Inc. (NASDAQ: QBTS) would see as the key benefits and challenges of working with a company like Foxconn as their contract manufacturer of quantum computing hardware.

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