France to Acquire First Cat-Qubit Quantum Computer

France will acquire the world's first quantum computer based on cat-qubit technology and build a new research facility in Paris [1, 2].

The agreement marks a strategic effort by the French government to secure technological sovereignty. By developing domestic quantum capabilities, France aims to keep pace with the rapid advances made by the U.S. and China in the global quantum race [3, 4].

Chloé Poisbeau, Chief Operating Officer of Alice & Bob, said the partnership was discussed during the VivaTech 2026 conference in Paris. The deal involves the construction of a quantum-computing laboratory valued at $50 million [1, 2]. The facility will span 4,000 square meters ^[2].

This initiative is part of a broader financial commitment from the French state to accelerate its computing infrastructure. The government has announced a 1 billion euro boost for quantum computing ^[3]. Other reports indicate France plans to invest more than $1 billion into domestic quantum-computing companies to ensure the nation remains competitive ^[4].

The use of cat-qubit technology is a central component of the acquisition. This specific approach to quantum computing is designed to improve stability and error correction, which are primary hurdles in the field. The new Paris lab will serve as a hub for integrating this hardware into practical applications [1, 2].

Alice & Bob is positioning itself as a key partner in Europe's effort to reduce reliance on foreign technology. The collaboration with the French government provides the company with the resources to scale its hardware, while providing the state with a critical strategic asset [1, 2].