Quantum computing is no longer just a scientific curiosity—it is a fiercely competitive industry where companies and countries are racing to secure patents that will define the future of computing. Patents in quantum computing are critical because they give companies exclusive rights to revolutionary technologies, ensuring dominance in this emerging field.
1. IBM leads the quantum computing patent race with over 2,500 quantum-related patents filed globally
IBM has been at the forefront of quantum computing for decades, and their dominance in patent filings proves their commitment to staying ahead. Their portfolio covers everything from superconducting qubits to error correction, quantum algorithms, and even hardware optimization.
What makes IBM’s strategy so effective? They are not just filing patents—they are making sure their patents have real-world applications. By investing in open-source quantum computing tools like Qiskit, they allow researchers to experiment while keeping key technologies under patent protection.
Actionable Insight: If you are a startup or researcher, study IBM’s patenting strategy. Look at how they balance open-source contributions with patent protections. Companies can also leverage IBM’s open-source tools to develop new applications without infringing on their patents.
2. Google has filed approximately 1,500 quantum computing patents, focusing on superconducting qubits and error correction
Google’s biggest breakthrough came in 2019 when they claimed quantum supremacy. Since then, their focus has been on refining superconducting qubits and improving quantum error correction—two areas crucial for making quantum computers practical.
Their approach involves aggressive patenting of hardware designs and software techniques. By locking down key elements of quantum error correction, Google ensures that any future quantum computer that aims to be commercially viable may need to license their technology.
Actionable Insight: For competitors, avoiding patent infringement will require developing alternative qubit architectures or novel error correction methods. Researchers should focus on areas Google has not yet dominated, such as alternative quantum computing models like trapped ions or topological qubits.
3. Microsoft has secured over 1,200 patents related to quantum computing, particularly in topological qubits
Microsoft is taking a different path from IBM and Google by focusing on topological qubits, a more stable but highly complex quantum computing approach. While they have yet to demonstrate a fully working topological quantum computer, their extensive patents indicate they are betting on long-term breakthroughs.
Unlike superconducting qubits, topological qubits promise fewer errors, which could make Microsoft’s approach more practical in the long run. By securing patents early, they are setting the stage for a potential industry shift.
Actionable Insight: Startups and researchers should monitor Microsoft’s progress. If topological qubits become viable, companies without patents in this space may struggle to compete. Those developing quantum software should consider how to optimize for multiple qubit architectures to avoid being locked into a single company’s ecosystem.
4. China holds more than 50% of the world’s quantum computing patents, primarily driven by government and corporate investments
China has aggressively invested in quantum technologies, with government-backed institutions and companies like Alibaba, Baidu, and Huawei leading the charge.
Their dominance in patent filings suggests they are preparing for a future where quantum computing plays a key role in national security, communications, and artificial intelligence.
Chinese patents cover a broad range of areas, from quantum cryptography to novel qubit designs. This reflects their strategy of developing both quantum computing hardware and applications, ensuring they are not reliant on Western technologies.
Actionable Insight: For global companies, this means increased competition and the need to track Chinese patent filings closely. If China continues at this pace, companies outside China may find themselves licensing Chinese quantum technologies in the future.
Those investing in quantum startups should consider whether a company has a strong intellectual property strategy to compete in this space.
5. Baidu and Alibaba together account for over 1,000 quantum computing patents in China
Tech giants Baidu and Alibaba are not just focused on traditional AI and cloud computing; they are deeply invested in quantum computing. Alibaba has built one of the most advanced quantum research labs in the world, while Baidu is focusing on integrating quantum computing into AI and big data applications.
Their patent strategies suggest they are looking at quantum computing not as a standalone technology but as an enhancement to their existing cloud and AI services.
Actionable Insight: Companies that rely on AI should closely watch how Alibaba and Baidu are incorporating quantum computing into their platforms. Those building quantum AI applications should identify areas not yet patented by these giants to avoid future licensing issues.
6. D-Wave, a pioneer in quantum annealing, has filed around 750 patents worldwide
D-Wave has taken a different approach by focusing on quantum annealing, a specialized form of quantum computing suited for optimization problems.
While their quantum computers do not perform general-purpose quantum computing, they are already being used commercially for logistics, finance, and materials science applications.
Their patent portfolio is concentrated on quantum annealing hardware, algorithms, and applications, ensuring they maintain their niche in the quantum industry.
Actionable Insight: Companies looking to apply quantum computing to real-world problems should consider whether quantum annealing is a better fit than general quantum computing.
Researchers should also explore hybrid approaches that combine classical and quantum annealing for complex problem-solving.
7. The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) granted over 5,000 quantum-related patents in the past decade
The rapid increase in U.S. quantum computing patents shows that companies are aggressively securing intellectual property. This trend will continue as more firms enter the race.
The USPTO’s patent approval process ensures that only novel and non-obvious inventions get granted patents, making it critical for companies to have a well-defined patent strategy.
Actionable Insight: Startups should work with experienced patent attorneys to ensure their quantum computing innovations meet the USPTO’s standards.
Businesses investing in quantum computing should conduct thorough patent searches before developing new technologies to avoid infringement risks.
8. China’s State Intellectual Property Office (SIPO) has seen a 120% increase in quantum patent filings over the past five years
China’s dramatic increase in patent filings indicates they are not slowing down. Their government’s push for quantum dominance is reflected in policies that encourage companies and universities to file patents aggressively.
This rapid growth means companies outside China will need to keep an eye on Chinese patents to avoid unintentional infringement.
Actionable Insight: Firms looking to collaborate with Chinese quantum companies should review existing patents to negotiate licensing deals early. Researchers should also consider how their work aligns with China’s patent landscape to identify potential gaps and opportunities.
9. The European Patent Office (EPO) has granted over 2,000 quantum computing patents
While the U.S. and China dominate quantum patent filings, Europe is not far behind. The European Patent Office (EPO) has issued over 2,000 patents related to quantum computing, showing strong innovation across European universities and corporations.
Countries like Germany, the UK, and France have been particularly active in filing patents, often focusing on quantum hardware, networking, and cryptography.
Unlike the aggressive patenting strategies of the U.S. and China, European firms tend to prioritize collaborative research, often working with academic institutions and government-backed projects. This leads to patents that focus on foundational technologies rather than commercial applications.
Actionable Insight: Startups and researchers should monitor European patents for breakthroughs that could complement their own innovations. Companies considering expansion into Europe must also ensure their patents comply with EPO guidelines, which can differ from those in the U.S. and China.
10. Japan’s top technology firms, including Toshiba and Fujitsu, have collectively filed over 600 quantum patents
Japan has a long history of technological innovation, and its quantum computing industry is no exception. Companies like Toshiba, Fujitsu, and NEC are filing patents at an increasing rate, particularly in quantum cryptography and quantum communications.
Japan’s focus on quantum security is driven by the country’s concern for data protection. Toshiba, for instance, has been a leader in quantum key distribution (QKD), which allows for ultra-secure communications that cannot be hacked.
Actionable Insight: Companies working on quantum cybersecurity should examine Japan’s research and patents for inspiration. As quantum encryption gains importance, businesses may need to license Japanese patents to develop secure communication systems.
11. The number of quantum computing patents filed annually has grown at a CAGR of 25% over the past decade
The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 25% in quantum patent filings highlights the rapid acceleration of innovation in this field. Just a decade ago, quantum computing was primarily an academic pursuit. Today, companies are treating it as a commercial necessity.
This growth rate suggests that within the next five years, the number of patents could more than double, making it even harder for newcomers to enter the space without licensing existing technologies.
Actionable Insight: Startups entering the quantum industry must act fast. The more patents are granted, the harder it will be to develop new quantum technologies without infringing on existing ones. A strong patent strategy and thorough patent research are essential for avoiding legal roadblocks.
12. Over 40% of quantum computing patents focus on quantum error correction and fault-tolerant computing
One of the biggest challenges in quantum computing is error correction. Unlike classical computers, quantum computers are incredibly fragile—small disturbances can disrupt calculations. This is why nearly half of all quantum patents focus on improving error rates and making quantum computing more reliable.
Companies like IBM, Google, and Microsoft have dedicated entire research teams to solving error correction problems. Whoever achieves fault-tolerant quantum computing first will likely hold key patents that others must license.
Actionable Insight: Investors should prioritize companies working on error correction, as this will be a crucial factor in commercializing quantum computers. For researchers, understanding existing error correction patents can help identify gaps where new approaches can be developed.
13. About 30% of quantum computing patents involve superconducting qubits, the leading approach in the field
Superconducting qubits, used by IBM, Google, and several others, dominate quantum computing patents. These qubits operate at extremely low temperatures and allow for fast quantum operations, making them the most commercially viable option today.
However, superconducting qubits are not the only approach—trapped ions, silicon-based qubits, and topological qubits are emerging competitors. Despite superconducting qubits leading the patent race, alternative qubit technologies may still challenge their dominance.
Actionable Insight: Companies focusing on alternative qubits should secure patents now while the field is still developing. Startups working with superconducting qubits must be aware of major players’ patents to avoid potential infringement issues.
14. Quantum cryptography patents account for nearly 15% of total quantum technology patents
Quantum cryptography is one of the most immediate applications of quantum computing. With quantum key distribution (QKD) offering unbreakable encryption, governments and businesses are rushing to secure intellectual property in this area.
China has led the way in quantum cryptography, launching quantum-secured communication satellites and filing patents for QKD networks. However, companies in the U.S. and Europe are also making significant advancements.
Actionable Insight: Organizations handling sensitive data should start exploring quantum cryptography now to future-proof their security infrastructure. Startups in cybersecurity should consider filing patents in quantum encryption before the space becomes overcrowded.
15. The top 10 organizations filing quantum computing patents hold nearly 80% of all granted patents
A small group of companies, including IBM, Google, Microsoft, Alibaba, and Baidu, hold the majority of quantum computing patents. This creates a highly competitive landscape where smaller players may struggle to develop new quantum technologies without encountering patent roadblocks.
This concentration of patents also means that major tech firms will likely control the commercialization of quantum computing, making it difficult for smaller startups to enter the market without partnerships or licensing agreements.
Actionable Insight: Startups should explore niche applications of quantum computing where fewer patents exist. Companies looking to build on existing quantum technologies should explore licensing deals with major patent holders to avoid legal disputes.
16. In 2023, China filed more quantum computing patents than the U.S. and Europe combined
China’s aggressive patent strategy reflects its goal of becoming the global leader in quantum technology. Their filings cover everything from quantum processors to quantum networking, indicating a well-rounded approach to quantum dominance.
Chinese firms and universities receive significant government support, allowing them to file patents at a rate unmatched by other countries. This could give China a competitive edge in the global quantum computing industry.
Actionable Insight: Businesses should monitor Chinese patents closely, as they may influence global standards. Companies that rely on international partnerships should assess how China’s quantum advancements might impact global trade and technology access.
17. The U.S. leads in high-impact quantum patents, with over 60% of its filings cited in research papers
While China leads in quantity, U.S. quantum patents tend to have a greater impact. More than half of U.S. quantum computing patents are cited in academic and industry research, indicating their importance in shaping the field.
This suggests that U.S. patents focus more on fundamental breakthroughs, whereas China’s patents may be more focused on application-based developments.
Actionable Insight: Researchers and businesses should prioritize understanding U.S. patents, as they often define industry standards. For startups, partnering with U.S. firms can provide access to high-impact technologies without navigating China’s complex patent system.
18. IBM’s quantum patent portfolio grew by 20% year-over-year in the past five years
IBM’s consistent growth in quantum patents demonstrates its long-term commitment to dominating the industry. Unlike some companies that file sporadically, IBM has maintained a steady annual increase in filings.
This strategy allows them to secure intellectual property in emerging areas before competitors can catch up.
A key factor in IBM’s success is their focus on both hardware and software. They are not just building quantum computers but also securing patents for algorithms, error correction techniques, and quantum cloud services.
This ensures that IBM remains a key player even if alternative quantum computing technologies emerge.
Actionable Insight: Businesses entering the quantum field should study IBM’s approach of balancing hardware and software patents. Researchers should also be aware of IBM’s growing patent portfolio to ensure their innovations do not overlap with IBM’s protected technologies.
19. The number of patents related to quantum artificial intelligence has doubled since 2019
Quantum AI is a rapidly growing field that combines quantum computing with machine learning. Companies are filing patents for quantum algorithms that could revolutionize AI, making it possible to process vast datasets faster than classical computers ever could.
Google and IBM are leading this area, but many startups are also securing patents in quantum-enhanced AI applications. This trend suggests that AI-driven industries such as finance, healthcare, and cybersecurity will soon experience a quantum-powered transformation.
Actionable Insight: AI-focused companies should start exploring quantum AI patents to stay ahead of the curve. Developers working on AI algorithms should investigate quantum optimization techniques, as these could become essential in the near future.
20. Intel has filed over 500 patents focused on silicon-based quantum computing
While most quantum computing efforts focus on superconducting qubits or trapped ions, Intel is taking a different route: silicon-based quantum computing. Their goal is to leverage existing semiconductor manufacturing processes to build scalable quantum processors.
If Intel succeeds, they could significantly reduce the cost of quantum computing, making it accessible to a wider range of industries. Their patent strategy reflects this ambition, covering everything from quantum transistors to integration with classical computing infrastructure.
Actionable Insight: Companies looking to build scalable quantum applications should pay attention to Intel’s progress. If silicon-based quantum computers become viable, they could lower the barrier to entry for businesses looking to adopt quantum technology.
21. Amazon Web Services (AWS) has filed over 300 quantum computing patents through its quantum research unit, Braket
AWS is positioning itself as a major player in cloud-based quantum computing. Their focus is not on building quantum hardware but on providing a platform where businesses and researchers can access quantum computing power via the cloud.
Their patents cover quantum computing integration with cloud environments, hybrid quantum-classical computing, and quantum machine learning applications. This approach allows them to remain hardware-agnostic while still securing valuable intellectual property.
Actionable Insight: Businesses interested in quantum computing but lacking in-house expertise should explore AWS Braket. Startups should consider how quantum computing could integrate with existing cloud-based applications to create new business models.
22. Quantum sensors and metrology patents have increased by 35% since 2018
Quantum sensors, which use quantum properties to measure physical changes with extreme precision, are an emerging field with real-world applications in medical imaging, environmental monitoring, and defense.
Unlike quantum computers, quantum sensors are already being deployed in industries such as navigation and geophysics. The growing number of patents in this space suggests that companies see commercial opportunities in quantum-enhanced measurement tools.
Actionable Insight: Companies looking for near-term applications of quantum technology should explore quantum sensors. Investors should consider quantum sensor startups as they are likely to see commercialization before full-scale quantum computers.
23. The majority of patents filed in quantum computing originate from three countries: the U.S., China, and Germany
While quantum research is a global effort, most patents are concentrated in just three countries. The U.S. and China dominate the space, but Germany is emerging as a key player, particularly in quantum optics and quantum communication.
Germany’s strong academic institutions, combined with support from companies like Siemens and Bosch, have positioned it as a leader in quantum technologies with industrial applications.
Actionable Insight: Businesses looking to collaborate on quantum research should consider Germany as a hub for innovation. Startups seeking funding and partnerships may find opportunities in the German quantum ecosystem.
24. Quantum networking patents have seen a 5x growth in the last decade
Quantum networking, which enables quantum-secure communication, is an area experiencing explosive growth. Patents in this field cover everything from quantum repeaters to long-distance quantum entanglement distribution.
Countries and companies investing in quantum networking aim to build quantum internet infrastructure that could revolutionize secure communication and data transfer. China has already demonstrated long-range quantum entanglement via satellite, while the U.S. and Europe are also making significant advancements.
Actionable Insight: Companies working on cybersecurity should consider quantum networking technologies as a future-proof solution. Researchers should look for untapped areas in quantum communication to secure patents before the field becomes saturated.
25. The average time for a quantum patent approval is 3.5 years, longer than most tech patents
Quantum patents take longer to approve compared to other technology fields due to their complexity. Many patent offices struggle to evaluate the novelty of quantum inventions, leading to extended examination times.
This delay can impact businesses that need to move quickly in a competitive market. Companies that do not anticipate these delays may find themselves losing first-mover advantage while waiting for their patents to be granted.
Actionable Insight: Companies filing quantum patents should plan for long approval times and explore provisional patents to secure early rights. Engaging with patent attorneys who specialize in quantum technology can also streamline the process.
26. IBM holds over 50% of the top-cited quantum computing patents
A patent’s value is often measured by how frequently it is cited in other patents and research papers. IBM dominates this space, holding more than half of the most frequently cited quantum patents.
This means IBM’s patents are shaping the direction of quantum computing research. Companies building new quantum technologies must carefully navigate IBM’s portfolio to avoid infringement while identifying opportunities for collaboration.
Actionable Insight: Researchers should analyze IBM’s most-cited patents to understand where the industry is heading. Startups should assess whether their technology overlaps with IBM’s IP and consider strategic licensing or partnership agreements.
27. Quantum materials patents, including those for topological insulators, have grown by 40% in the past five years
Quantum computing requires specialized materials that exhibit quantum properties, such as superconductivity and topological protection. The rapid growth of patents in quantum materials suggests that companies are investing heavily in developing next-generation qubit technologies.
These patents are crucial for improving the stability and efficiency of quantum computers. Companies focusing on material science are securing intellectual property that could be essential for future breakthroughs.
Actionable Insight: Businesses involved in materials science should explore opportunities in quantum materials research. Investors should consider quantum materials startups as a key part of the quantum computing supply chain.
28. The top 5 tech firms account for over 65% of the global quantum patent filings
A handful of companies—IBM, Google, Microsoft, Alibaba, and Baidu—hold the majority of quantum patents. This high concentration of intellectual property means that most smaller companies will need to either license existing patents or innovate in areas not yet dominated by these giants.
Actionable Insight: Startups should focus on niche quantum applications where competition is lower. Companies looking to enter the quantum space should consider forming strategic partnerships with major patent holders to gain access to essential technologies.
29. Over 70% of quantum computing patents are from private corporations, with universities and research institutions holding the rest
Quantum computing started in academia, but private corporations now dominate the patent landscape. This shift reflects the commercialization of quantum technology, with companies filing patents to secure competitive advantages.
Actionable Insight: Universities and research institutions should strengthen their IP strategies to protect their inventions. Companies should consider partnerships with academic institutions to gain early access to breakthrough technologies.
30. The World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) reports that quantum computing patent applications have surpassed 20,000 globally
The sheer volume of quantum patents being filed shows that quantum computing is no longer a distant dream—it is a reality shaping industries today.
Actionable Insight: Businesses that do not start preparing for the quantum future now risk being left behind. Companies should develop a quantum patent strategy to secure their position in this rapidly evolving landscape.
wrapping it up
The quantum computing patent race is not just about innovation—it’s about who will control the future of computing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and beyond. The companies, countries, and institutions that secure key patents today will be the ones shaping industries for decades to come.
