Infleqtion has announced the acquisition of SiNoptiq Inc. and Morton Photonics Inc., both integrated silicon photonics firms. This strategic move is geared towards accelerating the integration of lasers, photonic, and atomic systems at a chip-scale level, a crucial step in commercializing quantum products such as sensors and quantum computers.
The acquisitions are expected to strengthen Infleqtion’s position in the quantum supply chain and facilitate quantum manufacturing at scale. Scott Faris, CEO of Infleqtion, emphasized the significance of scale in delivering high-value quantum solutions, especially in sectors like defense and enterprise deployments.
Historically, the quantum supply chain has faced limitations due to a limited number of suppliers and challenges in commercial manufacturing, particularly in the United States. The investments in SiNoptiq and Morton Photonics aim to address these challenges by expediting the transition of essential photonic and laser technologies from research and development to commercial production.
SiNoptiq, known for its ultra-low loss silicon nitride platform, specializes in delivering photonics performance for quantum applications. Dr. Dan Blumenthal, SiNoptiq’s President and CEO, will join Infleqtion as Chief Photonics Architect, bringing expertise in ultra-low loss photonic integration.
Morton Photonics focuses on advanced silicon photonics-based components for microwave photonics and sensing systems. Dr. Paul Morton, CEO of Morton Photonics, will join Infleqtion as Vice President of Photonics and General Manager of the newly established Infleqtion Santa Barbara Research Center.
Infleqtion’s recent achievements include selection for Japan’s Quantum Moonshot program, the launch of Oqtant (the world’s first quantum matter service), and advancements in quantum RF capability and interoperability. The acquisitions of SiNoptiq and Morton Photonics add over 40 foundational patents to Infleqtion’s IP portfolio, crucial for the scaled production of quantum sensors, network devices, and computers.