IBM × AMD Challenge to "Quantum-Centric Supercomputing": Leaping from the Shadow of Generative AI to Future Technology
In recent years, among companies that have been watching the rapid growth of generative AI, IBM and AMD are said to have missed the wave. However, both companies are pursuing a strategy to establish a new technological advantage starting from "quantum computing," which is not generative AI. In this article, we will explain the content and significance of "quantum-centric supercomputing," which is being advanced through the collaboration between IBM and AMD, incorporating background information and quotes.
1. Why are they said to have "fallen behind in generative AI"?
1-1. Background of the struggle in generative AI
In the world of generative AI, OpenAI and Google took the lead and captured public attention. On the other hand, IBM CEO Arvind Krishna has stated that rather than developing general-purpose models, IBM will focus on "smaller, accuracy-oriented AI models" for businesses. This is a strategy based on the recognition that the business profitability of large-scale general-purpose models (e.g., trillion-parameter class) is gradually slowing down.
“IBM aims to serve high-stakes business applications where accuracy and efficiency matter more than generalist capabilities.”
1-2. The difficulty of implementation and the monetization gap
According to an MIT survey, approximately 95% of AI pilot projects have not generated the initially expected returns. Factors for this include skewed investment toward marketing and sales, and improper implementation. On the other hand, IBM is differentiating itself from other companies through a consulting-focused approach, which is a strategy that leverages IBM's strengths.
2. IBM × AMD Collaboration: A Strategy for Fusing Quantum and AI
2-1. Overview and purpose of the collaboration
On August 26, 2025, IBM and AMD announced that they would collaborate to realize "quantum-centric supercomputing."
IBM: Strengths in quantum computer development and software (e.g., Qiskit)
AMD: Strengths in high-performance computing (HPC) and AI chips (CPU, GPU, FPGA)
The two companies will build an open-source, scalable platform and aim for processing performance that exceeds conventional computing through a "hybrid model" that fuses quantum and classical computing.
2-2. What exactly will they do?
First-year demonstration scheduled to be executed within this year. Building a hybrid workflow that actually links IBM's quantum machines with AMD's computing resources.
Role of quantum: Simulating the behavior of atoms and molecules (e.g., drug discovery, materials development)
Role of classical/HPC: Processing large-scale data analysis and AI model inference. Example: "Quantum for microscopic situations, classical AI for macroscopic analysis"
Error correction support: Also considering real-time error correction using AMD technology toward the realization of quantum fault tolerance.
3. Market and investor reaction
3-1. Impact on stock prices
After the announcement, AMD stock rose 2–2.8%, and IBM stock also saw a positive reaction, rising approximately 0.7–1.4%.
3-2. Analyst Evaluation
Truist Securities analyst William Stein upgraded AMD from Hold to Buy and raised the price target from $173 to $213. The reasons cited include AMD being increasingly recognized as a viable alternative to NVIDIA for AI GPUs, and the potential to capture up to 10% of the data center GPU market with the introduction of the MI355 AI chip.
4. Why the Fusion of 'Quantum' and 'AI' Now?
4-1. Establishing Dominance as Infrastructure
Both companies are aiming for a computing foundation that serves as industrial infrastructure. Rather than just chasing generative AI, they are looking to secure long-term market leadership by building next-generation computing architectures.
4-2. A Clearer Path to Commercialization
Clear use cases through proof-of-concept experiments and industrial applications (such as drug discovery and optimization problems) differ from the opaque value proposition of general-purpose AI. Therefore, adoption barriers are lower, and a realistic transition to the next stage is expected.
Conclusion: From Generative AI to Quantum AI. IBM and AMD's 'Next Move'
The collaboration between IBM and AMD is not merely a 'catch-up' for lost time, but a strategic advance aimed at the future of computing infrastructure. Even if they appeared to miss the generative AI wave, the implementation capabilities and infrastructure-oriented perspectives held by both companies are strengths that many others lack.
Points to Watch:
Results of the hybrid demo scheduled for later this year
Progress in quantum fault tolerance
Announcements of results in practical use cases (drug discovery, logistics, optimization, etc.)
Rather than just riding the generative AI wave, they are sowing the seeds to build the 'next computing revolution.' Such a challenge from both companies may well mark the dawn of the hybrid era.
