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Xanadu and Thorlabs partner to advance optical controls for photonic quantum computing

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TORONTO and NEWTON, N.J., Jan. 13, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Xanadu Quantum Technologies Inc....

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AI Summary

Xanadu partners with Thorlabs to enhance photonic quantum computing technology. Partnership aims to develop stable optical components for quantum computing. Xanadu's business combination with CHAC anticipates raising $500 million. NewCo will be listed on Nasdaq and Toronto Stock Exchange. Stability in optical components enhances Xanadu's scalability and performance.

Sentiment Rationale

The partnership enhances Xanadu's capabilities, creating value for CHAC shareholders, similar to past tech collaborations that improved stock value.

Trading Thesis

The immediate execution of the business combination will boost investor confidence and likely impact CHAC's value shortly.

Market-Moving

  • Xanadu partners with Thorlabs to enhance photonic quantum computing technology.
  • Partnership aims to develop stable optical components for quantum computing.
  • Xanadu's business combination with CHAC anticipates raising $500 million.

Key Facts

  • Xanadu partners with Thorlabs to enhance photonic quantum computing technology.
  • Partnership aims to develop stable optical components for quantum computing.
  • Xanadu's business combination with CHAC anticipates raising $500 million.
  • NewCo will be listed on Nasdaq and Toronto Stock Exchange.
  • Stability in optical components enhances Xanadu's scalability and performance.

Companies Mentioned

  • XAN (XAN)
  • NVDA (NVDA)
  • IBM (IBM)

M&A

The significant financial backing and strategic partnership are likely to boost market confidence and activity around CHAC.

Xanadu and Thorlabs Collaborate to Enhance Optical Controls for Photonic Quantum Computing

In a significant advancement for the field of quantum technology, Xanadu Quantum Technologies Inc. (“Xanadu”), a prominent player in photonic quantum computing, has joined forces with Thorlabs, a renowned manufacturer of photonics equipment. Announced on January 13, 2026, this partnership aims to develop customized optical fiber components crucial for scaling photonic quantum computing systems.

Objectives of the Partnership

The collaboration will leverage Xanadu’s expertise in photonic quantum computing hardware with Thorlabs’ advanced manufacturing capabilities. Together, they will focus on overcoming critical challenges such as optical loss and large-volume manufacturability. The primary goal is to produce novel photonic components that ensure phase and polarization stability—essential factors in maintaining the integrity of photonic qubits.

  • Stability Criteria: Ensuring stability is vital as any drift can lead to computational errors.
  • High Volume Manufacturing: Accelerating the transition from proof-of-concept to production will enhance Xanadu's capabilities significantly.
  • Cost Efficiency: Partnering with Thorlabs provides competitive advantages in precision manufacturing.

Insights from Key Executives

Christian Weedbrook, CEO and Founder of Xanadu, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “We are pleased to work with Thorlabs on addressing this challenge. Their deep expertise and ability to manufacture with high precision, at a high volume, and at a competitive cost makes them an invaluable partner.”

Peter Fendel, Chief Technology Officer at Thorlabs, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the partnership's shared vision to push the boundaries of photonics technologies. “This partnership combines Xanadu’s deep expertise in scalable quantum computing with Thorlabs’ decades of experience,” he stated.

Business Combination with Crane Harbor Acquisition Corp.

In addition to the partnership with Thorlabs, Xanadu Quantum Technologies Inc. has announced a business combination with Crane Harbor Acquisition Corp. (Nasdaq: CHAC), a publicly traded special purpose acquisition company. The resulting entity, named Xanadu Quantum Technologies Limited (“NewCo”), is projected to secure approximately US$500 million in gross proceeds. This includes:

  • About US$225 million from Crane Harbor’s trust account (assuming no redemptions by shareholders).
  • Approximately US$275 million from strategic and institutional investors.

NewCo is anticipated to list on the Nasdaq and the Toronto Stock Exchange, enhancing its visibility in the financial markets.

About Xanadu and Thorlabs

Xanadu, founded in 2016, focuses on creating accessible quantum computing solutions and is recognized for its development of PennyLane, an open-source software library for quantum applications. Thorlabs, established in 1989, supports the research community in photonics and has evolved into a leader across multiple segments, including quantum technology.

Additional Transaction Information

The proposed business combination will be submitted to shareholders for approval. Relevant details and documents will be filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Shareholders are advised to review these documents thoroughly once available.

Future Outlook

This partnership clearly illustrates the commitment of both Xanadu and Thorlabs to innovate and expand the capabilities of photonic quantum computing. The strategic alliance is expected to yield advanced solutions that will propel the development of large-scale quantum systems, potentially setting new standards in the industry.

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