A software startup from Singapore has introduced the first quantum computer in the country that is available for commercial use. The company said the system is now fully operational as it prepares for a public listing in the United States.
Horizon Quantum, founded in 2018 by quantum researcher Joe Fitzsimons, announced that the machine cost about 2.3 million dollars to assemble. It brings together components from well known quantum technology suppliers including Maybell Quantum, Quantum Machines and Rigetti Computing. With this launch, the firm becomes the first pure play quantum software company to own and operate its own quantum computer. The team believes this setup can speed up progress in the field.
“Our focus is on helping developers to start harnessing quantum computers to do real world work,” said Fitzsimons. “How do we take full advantage of these systems? How do we program them?” He added that understanding how the entire technology stack works is essential even though the company mainly builds software tools and infrastructure for quantum applications.
The startup plans to use its new hardware to develop quantum solutions for industries such as pharmaceuticals and finance. Quantum systems are designed to address challenges that are too complex for traditional computers by using the principles of quantum mechanics. Tasks like simulating molecules for new drug development or running many different scenarios for portfolio risk analysis can be slow and expensive on conventional machines. Quantum computing is expected to bring faster and more accurate models for such problems.
Experts believe practical quantum applications may be only a few years away, although current systems still face many engineering and programming obstacles. Investment in the sector continues to grow as global technology companies report progress. Leading firms and the United States government are investing heavily in quantum research. Investor interest also increased earlier this year after positive industry commentary suggested that the technology is nearing an important turning point.
Horizon Quantum’s announcement follows its planned merger with a special purpose acquisition company that aims to take it public on the Nasdaq under the ticker HQ. The deal, agreed in September, valued the startup at about 503 million dollars and is expected to close in the first quarter of 2026.
The launch also strengthens Singapore’s long term goal of becoming a regional quantum hub. The country has supported quantum research for years and introduced the National Quantum Strategy in 2024. The initiative committed around 300 million Singapore dollars over five years to expand the sector, including investments in local quantum processor development.
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