Microsoft will make Rigetti quantum computers available on its Azure Quantum service.

The system joins computers from Quantum Circuits, IONQ, and Honeywell Quantum Solutions (now Quantinuum). Microsoft is also developing its own quantum computers.

The Rigetti computers are expected to be available in the first quarter of 2022. The company says it will be the largest quantum computer accessible on Azure Quantum.

Rigetti quantum computers use superconducting qubits, which it claims has faster execution times and greater scaling than other commercially available quantum computing technologies.

“We’re excited to bring the speed and scale of Rigetti quantum computers to the Azure Quantum marketplace,” said Taryn Naidu, chief operating officer of Rigetti. “Microsoft has fostered an impressive community of quantum developers and researchers. Together, we can power a new generation of algorithms that chart the path toward quantum advantage."

Krysta Svore, general manager of Microsoft Quantum, added: “Rigetti’s scalable approach to superconducting quantum computers will create new opportunities for the Azure Quantum development community. We’re working closely with Rigetti to deliver hybrid quantum-classical computing with the performance to tackle problems that were previously out of reach.”

In October Rigetti announced plans to go public via a Special Purpose Acquisition Company (SPAC) merger with Supernova Partners Acquisition Company II, Ltd. in a deal that would value the company at around $1.5 billion.