IBM Unveils Quantum Computer in Illinois

The IBM Quantum System Two, driven by the Nighthawk processor, is on display at Hyde Park Labs before moving to a planned South Side quantum park.

Updated on Nov. 6, 2026 in Quantum Computing

Photorealistic view of a tall cylindrical cryostat with gold cooling plumbing and brushed steel frames in a dim laboratory bay, suggesting quantum computing hardware. — IBM unveiled its first quantum computer in Illinois on Friday at Hyde Park Labs, where the System Two machine will stay before moving to a planned South Side Chicago quantum park. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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IBM unveiled its first quantum computer in Illinois on Friday at Hyde Park Labs. The system is driven by the IBM Quantum Nighthawk processor and will eventually move to the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park on Chicago's South Side.

Why it matters

The move anchors the state's effort to build a quantum computing hub in Chicago, which the state has backed with significant public funding. The system is expected to anchor the National Quantum Algorithm Center planned for the park.

The IBM Quantum System Two is driven by the IBM Quantum Nighthawk processor, and the state's $500 million package includes $200 million for a shared cryogenic plant. The relocation timeline to the South Side park has not been specified.

The players

IBM

IBM is a major American technology company that has been a leading developer of commercial quantum computing systems.

Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park

The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park is a state-backed development on the former U.S. Steel site on Chicago's South Side, designed as a hub for quantum research and manufacturing.

The details

IBM unveiled the system on Friday at Hyde Park Labs, where it is being installed before its planned move. The system was initially installed at the University of Chicago's commercial research and development facility, and IBM Quantum System Two computers already operate in New York, Japan and Spain.

December 2024: IBM and the state announced plans for the National Quantum Algorithm Center.
April: IBM announced the FutureNow Chicago innovation center at the quantum park.
Friday: IBM unveiled the first Illinois quantum computer at Hyde Park Labs.
2028: The Quantum Works building, which will house FutureNow Chicago, is expected to be completed.

The Tech Race

The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, backed by $500 million in state funding, is Illinois's bid to secure a place in the race to build commercial quantum computers. IBM's placement of a working system in Chicago strengthens that bid against rival quantum hubs elsewhere in the country.

For Chicago residents, the project is expected to bring 750 jobs across AI, cybersecurity, data science and quantum computing through FutureNow Chicago. IBM will also support 500 students over five years through a City Colleges apprenticeship program.

The takeaway

The arrival of a working quantum system in Chicago marks a concrete step toward the state's long-term quantum ambitions. Residents interested in the emerging field can watch for apprenticeship and hiring openings tied to the park.

What happens next

The IBM Quantum System Two is slated to move to the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park, with the relocation date not yet specified. The FutureNow Chicago center is expected to be completed in the Quantum Works building by 2028.