Before quantum computing arrives, this startup wants enterprises already running on it

Finnish Entrepreneur Peter Sarlin Steps Down as CEO of AMD Silo AI to Chair Two New Ventures

After selling his startup to chipmaker AMD for $665 million, Finnish entrepreneur Peter Sarlin has recently announced his departure from his role as CEO of the unit now known as AMD Silo AI. Sarlin is now taking on the role of chairman at two new ventures: NestAI, a physical AI lab, and QuTwo, an AI startup focused on helping companies prepare for the era of quantum computing.

QuTwo, fully funded by Sarlin’s family office, PostScriptum, describes itself as “an AI lab for the quantum era.” Despite the early stage of quantum computing, QuTwo is already working with enterprise customers like European fashion retailer Zalando to develop “lifestyle agents,” AI tools that go beyond traditional product search to proactively suggest products and experiences.

QuTwo’s approach is based on the belief that AI is facing efficiency limitations that quantum computing could potentially address in the future. Rather than waiting for quantum computing to mature, QuTwo is developing QuTwo OS as an orchestration layer that enables companies to transition from classical to quantum computing, utilizing hybrid computing in the process.

Sarlin has also invested in Finnish quantum companies IQM and QMill through PostScriptum. He envisions a future where quantum computing outperforms classical computers in various industry applications while reducing AI’s energy consumption. QuTwo OS is designed to be flexible, supporting both quantum and non-quantum algorithms and chips.

With a team that combines expertise in quantum and AI, including IQM cofounder Kuan Yen Tan and former Nokia CEO Pekka Lundmark, QuTwo is well-positioned to bridge the gap between quantum and AI technologies. The company aims to push AI workloads from classical to quantum environments, catering to a broad customer base that includes companies like Zalando and OP Pohjola, a Finnish financial services provider.

QuTwo’s commercial focus is evident through its large design partnerships, valued in the tens of millions, which allow the company to co-develop products with enterprise customers and gain insights into their needs. These partnerships serve as a strategic move for enterprises looking to establish a foothold in the quantum computing space.