On Thursday, September 17, 2026, the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA) and the Paris-based quantum computing firm Alice & Bob announced a partnership to integrate advanced quantum technology into France’s supercomputing infrastructure. The collaboration involves adapting the Qaptiva platform, developed by Bull (now state-owned after its acquisition from Atos), to work with Alice & Bob’s software stack. This integration is expected to enhance the performance of existing high-performance computing systems. Additionally, the two organizations are launching a joint research initiative focused on N-body problems—complex simulations involving multiple interacting particles that are beyond the reach of classical computers. This research aims to prepare for the arrival of fault-tolerant quantum systems, anticipated around 2030. Alice & Bob, with operations in Paris and Boston, has gained recognition for its use of cat qubits, a type of quantum bit developed by the company’s founders before being adopted by Amazon. The company claims its approach can reduce the hardware needs for a large-scale quantum computer by up to 200 times compared to other methods. Its advisory board includes Nobel Prize-winning researchers, underscoring the scientific rigor behind its technology. The company's collaboration with the CEA brings together internal expertise in quantum computing, allowing for seamless integration between quantum and classical computing systems. Qaptiva, the quantum platform developed by Bull, functions as a bridge between quantum and classical computing systems. It allows developers to write code once and run it across different quantum machines, either locally or through the cloud, without reprogramming. It also optimizes the distribution of tasks between quantum and classical resources, enhancing efficiency. This kind of intermediary platform is essential as quantum computing technology is still in its early stages, and compatibility with existing systems is a major challenge. The CEA and Alice & Bob aim to develop algorithms that can be deployed once fault-tolerant quantum computers—systems capable of performing error-free calculations—become available around 2030. Potential applications include the design of new materials, the study of chemical reactions, and the simulation of complex industrial processes. Jacques-Charles Lafoucrière, program director at the CEA, emphasized that this initiative combines fundamental scientific research with practical industrial needs, ensuring that companies are prepared to use quantum computing effectively when it becomes available. The partnership is designed to accelerate the transition from theoretical quantum computing to real-world applications, ensuring that the benefits of this technology are realized as soon as possible. By combining Alice & Bob’s cutting-edge quantum technology, Qaptiva’s integration with existing supercomputers, and industry-focused use cases, the project aims to deliver measurable economic benefits. The CEA’s involvement also supports France and Europe’s broader goals of achieving scientific and technological independence in key areas like clean energy, digital innovation, health, and national security.