Quantum Leap: Diraq & imec Hit 99% Fidelity in Industrial Silicon Qubits

Researchers from Diraq and imec report that silicon-based quantum chips can reach over 99% fidelity for two-qubit operations when built in semiconductor foundries. They present this as a meaningful step towards fault-tolerant, commercially viable quantum computers that harness established semiconductor manufacturing.

Quantum computing depends on qubits and robust two-qubit logic gates, long a bottleneck for fault tolerance. Early progress centred on laboratory prototypes, but scaling to production has brought fresh challenges. The new results are framed as a move from experimental showcases to implementation using mature manufacturing methods.

According to a Nature paper dated 24 September 2025, Diraq’s silicon quantum chips, fabricated with imec, achieved more than 99% fidelity in two-qubit operations. UNSW Engineering Professor Andrew Dzurak is quoted as saying that performance demonstrated under controlled laboratory conditions could be reproduced on a production line. The authors add that the results accord with prior experimental work and bolster silicon’s prospects as a platform for next-generation quantum computing.

Compatibility with established semiconductor manufacturing is presented as a path to more scalable quantum hardware. By leveraging existing CMOS processes, the authors argue, the technology could scale more efficiently, with knock‑on effects across the wider microchip industry. Potential applications cited include pharmaceuticals and logistics, aimed at tackling complex computational problems. The work is described as aligning with performance aims associated with initiatives such as the DARPA Quantum Benchmarking Initiative.

Diraq and imec used established semiconductor fabrication techniques to carry foundry-fabricated silicon quantum chips from lab-scale prototypes into production. The authors report testing two-qubit operations with fidelities above 99%. They further note that careful calibration and validation of production parameters helped sustain performance when moving from experimental setups to a manufacturing environment.

Despite the reported gains, significant hurdles remain on the road to fully scalable, fault-tolerant quantum systems. Qubits are highly sensitive to environmental noise, and large-scale integration adds engineering complexity. Although silicon is compatible with existing manufacturing, the authors point to the need for further optimisation in chip design and system integration to maximise performance. Continued research will be required to convert these advances into commercially competitive products.

The team signals a focus on boosting both the fidelity and scalability of silicon quantum chips. Planned steps include refining multi‑qubit interactions and implementing advanced error‑correction techniques as part of the push towards utility‑scale systems. The authors say they intend to validate these improvements under the DARPA Quantum Benchmarking Initiative framework, contributing to emerging industry standards. They anticipate that increased investment and collaboration across semiconductor and quantum sectors will underpin progress.

These advances in silicon quantum chip technology are presented as a step towards practical quantum computers. By suggesting that high‑fidelity qubit operations are achievable with conventional foundry methods, the study points to a bridge between experimental research and industrial use. The results are described as strengthening the case for silicon in quantum computing and laying groundwork for future fault‑tolerant, commercially viable systems.

For industry stakeholders and tech enthusiasts alike, it’s an engaging moment to track quantum computing’s evolution. Keep up with the latest breakthroughs and analyses by visiting our archive on neural network news.