IonQ Inc. (IONQ) continues to expand its quantum platform through two closely linked acquisitions focused on software and secure networking. Yesterday, the company announced an agreement to acquire Seed Innovations, a Colorado-based software and research firm, and completed its previously announced purchase of Skyloom Global.
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First, the Seed Innovations deal is expected to close on January 30, 2026, with financial terms not disclosed. Seed’s team will join IonQ’s Quantum Infrastructure unit, reporting to President Frank Backes. According to IonQ, Seed brings deep experience in AI, machine learning, cloud migration, and system automation. The goal is to help IonQ manage and scale complex quantum workloads for government and commercial customers.
Frank Backes said the acquisition expands IonQ’s software depth as it builds an enterprise-grade, full-stack quantum platform. He added that Seed’s skills in machine learning and automated architecture will help improve performance across IonQ’s quantum systems.
Meanwhile, IonQ also completed its acquisition of Skyloom Global, a U.S.-based company focused on optical and secure communications. Skyloom adds free-space optical technology that supports quantum networking, quantum key distribution, and distributed quantum systems. Skyloom’s leadership team will remain in place and continue working with existing government, aerospace, and defense customers.
IonQ Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Niccolo de Masi said Skyloom strengthens the company’s ability to deliver secure connectivity and supports its long-term vision for distributed quantum networks.
Meanwhile, IONQ shares rose 0.68%, closing at $45.80.
How These Deals Fit IonQ’s Broader Strategy
Taken together, the Seed and Skyloom acquisitions show IonQ’s effort to move beyond quantum hardware alone. The company is steadily building a full platform that combines compute, software, networking, and security into one offering. Seed strengthens the software layer by helping IonQ automate operations and apply AI to system management. Skyloom adds a networking layer that enables quantum systems to connect securely over long distances.
This approach is designed to appeal to large customers who need stable, secure, and scalable systems rather than access to a single quantum machine. As a result, IonQ is positioning itself as a provider of complete quantum infrastructure rather than a niche hardware vendor.
That strategy also aligns with IonQ’s earlier move this week to acquire SkyWater Technology (SKYT). SkyWater is a U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturer with trusted foundry capabilities. By bringing chip manufacturing closer to home, IonQ gains tighter control over how its quantum hardware is built and improved.
In simple terms, SkyWater supports the physical foundation, Seed improves the software layer, and Skyloom enables secure connections between systems. Together, these moves suggest IonQ is focused on building a vertically integrated quantum platform that can meet the needs of enterprise and government customers over time.
Is IONQ Stock a Buy?
On the Street, IonQ holds a Strong Buy consensus rating. The average IONQ stock price target stands at $77.36, implying a 68.91% upside from the current price.
