SEALSQ Targets CMOS-Compatible Architectures for Scalable Quantum Systems

SEALSQ is intensifying its focus on semiconductor-aligned quantum computing, emphasizing CMOS-compatible architectures to bridge the gap between quantum research and industrial-scale deployment. The Geneva-based company believes that silicon-friendly approaches offer the most practical route to scalable quantum systems.

For readers of eeNews Europe, this announcement is significant as it links quantum computing with familiar semiconductor manufacturing processes. It underscores the increasing importance of security and post-quantum cryptography as integral design elements as quantum hardware advances towards real-world applications.

Embracing Silicon-based Solutions for Scalability

SEALSQ Corp (NASDAQ: LAES) has revealed its emphasis on silicon spin qubits and electrons-on-helium platforms, two methodologies that can utilize established CMOS fabrication and integration techniques. Silicon spin qubits involve electrons confined in silicon structures, manufactured using processes akin to mainstream CMOS, offering potential benefits in yield and scalability. Electrons-on-helium qubits position electrons above superfluid helium on a silicon substrate, utilizing CMOS-compatible electronics for control, presenting a low-noise option.

According to SEALSQ, CMOS compatibility extends beyond manufacturing efficiency. Quantum processors necessitate dense control wiring, high-speed signal routing, cryogenic electronics, and continuous calibration. Silicon-based platforms enable the co-design and eventual co-integration of quantum devices with classical CMOS control circuitry. The company highlights fully depleted silicon-on-insulator (FDSOI) as a promising technology, balancing low noise and power consumption at the wafer level.

Advantages of Semiconductor Alignment

Founder and CEO Carlos Moreira asserts that this alignment provides SEALSQ with a competitive edge over other quantum methodologies. Moreira states, “From our perspective, this technology alignment is a real advantage over other quantum approaches, such as superconducting or ion-trap systems. While those platforms are scientifically impressive, they often rely on specialized materials, custom fabrication steps, or complex optical and vacuum setups that do not align as naturally with mainstream semiconductor manufacturing.”

He emphasizes that silicon-based approaches are “designed from the start to evolve within the semiconductor ecosystem,” facilitating quicker learning cycles and a smoother transition from the lab to production. Importantly, Moreira underscores security-by-design, highlighting that this strategy enables SEALSQ to embed post-quantum cryptography and hardware-based trust directly into quantum systems.

Integration of Security Measures in Quantum Systems

Alongside its hardware strategy, SEALSQ is integrating post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and secure elements into quantum control architectures. With quantum computers posing a threat to classical public-key cryptography, the company views PQC as crucial for safeguarding firmware updates, calibration data, FPGA configurations, and communications between control electronics and cloud orchestration layers.

By incorporating secure elements alongside quantum control circuitry, SEALSQ aims to enable trusted boot, device attestation, and secure key storage. The company believes this will be vital as quantum computers transition from isolated lab tools to networked, mission-critical infrastructure.

SEALSQ’s core message is clear: the success of scalable quantum computing hinges on alignment with semiconductor manufacturing realities and ensuring security measures are robust enough for deployment in government, industrial, and critical infrastructure settings.