Neutral atom quantum computing has rapidly evolved from a niche research field to a leading paradigm in the race toward practical quantum computing.  In the words of Alain Aspect, «The rise of neutral atom quantum computing over the last decade-and-a-half has been nothing short of remarkable—and it shows no sign of slowing down.».
Indeed, groundbreaking advances have propelled this technology to the forefront, with neutral atom processors now achieving scalability, versatility, and quantum coherence levels that rival other approaches. But how did we get here, and what does the future hold?

Quantonation is proud to present our latest white paper, Neutral Atoms: The Stunning Rise of Quantum Computing’s Dark Horse. This in-depth report written by Dylan Barry, editorial consultant for Quantonation, provides a comprehensive look at the history, technological breakthroughs, and future trajectory of neutral atom quantum computing. It draws on insights from leading researchers and industry pioneers, including Nobel Laureate Dr Alain Aspect, Dr Mark Saffman, Dr Antoine Browaeys, Dr Immanuel Bloch, Dr Thierry Lahaye, Dr Julien Laurat and Dr Jean Dalibard.

Scalability: The Key Advantage

One of the key takeaways from the white paper is the scalability advantage that neutral atom quantum computers offer. Unlike other qubit platforms, neutral atoms can be precisely manipulated and arranged using optical tweezers, enabling rapid increases in qubit numbers without compromising coherence times. This has allowed companies like Pasqal, QuEra, Atom Computing, planqc and Infleqtion to push the boundaries of what’s possible in quantum computing, with 1,000+ qubit arrays now within reach.

How Neutral Atom Quantum Computing Stacks Up

The report also examines how neutral atom quantum computing compares to other architectures such as superconducting qubits and trapped ions. With intrinsic all-to-all connectivity and long coherence times, neutral atoms offer a unique balance of stability and scalability. Recent advances in laser-based control techniques and error correction strategies have further strengthened the platform’s competitiveness, paving the way for near-term applications in optimization, simulation, and quantum chemistry.

Yet, challenges remain. The industrialization of neutral atom quantum computing requires continued innovation in laser stability, vacuum technology, and system integration. Companies in the field are actively addressing these hurdles, working toward practical quantum computers that can solve real-world problems. The white paper explores these technical challenges and the strategies being employed to overcome them.

The full report is available now. Click below to access the white paper and dive into the future of neutral atom quantum computing.

About Quantonation

Quantonation is an early stage venture capital fund investing globally in novel technologies based on advances in physics and/or computing. With +€150m of Assets Under Management and an international team of both scientists and investors Quantonation aims at supporting the transition from lab to commercial products. Quantonation is headquartered in Paris, France, and in Boston, USA, with investments in Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific.

Quantonation contact: Eléonore de Rose, Director of communications and PR eleonore@quantonation.com – +33 6 62 64 40 53