SK Telecom (CEO Yoo Young-sang) is strengthening global cooperation to prepare for the AI and quantum era.

SKT announced on the 27th that it has signed a strategic partnership with American quantum computer company IonQ (CEO Peter Chapman).

Through this partnership, the two companies will work together to advance the AI and quantum industries.

Quantum computers have the ability to process more data faster than conventional computers, and if they are used in AI, it is expected that optimized AI technology and service results will be obtained with less power.

IonQ is a leader in developing ion trap technology with high stability and precision, and SKT plans to lay the foundation for an era of ultra-high-level AI based on quantum computers through cooperation.

With this MOU, SKT plans to increase the competitiveness of its AI business by combining its AI technologies, A., Aster, AI Data Center (AI DC), GPU Cloud Service (GPUaaS), Edge AI, and quantum cryptography technologies (QKD, PQC), with IonQ’s quantum computing technology.

In addition, SKT and SK Square have established a closer business partnership by exchanging shares of global quantum cryptography company IDQ for shares of IonQ.

Even after the equity swap, SKT will continue to cooperate with IDQ in the field of quantum cryptography communications and strengthen its leadership in the domestic quantum cryptography market through technology and product development.

SKT CEO Yoo Young-sang said, “Quantum technology is essential for the development of AI. “SKT will continue to make preemptive investments and cooperation to become a leading company in the AI field,” he said.