Google’s parent Alphabet Inc. has reportedly spun off its quantum tech startup Sandbox AQ to make it independent, to offer quantum computing software and artificial intelligence (AI) services to its clients.
Founded in 2016 by Chief Executive Officer Jack Hidary, Sandbox stemmed from its parent Alphabet Inc. In 2022, the startup has become an independent firm that develops quantum AI solutions for financial services, computer security, healthcare, the U.S. government, and other sectors.
Equipped with substantial funding and highly experienced personnel, like former Google Chief Executive Eric Schmidt as its chairman, Sandbox AQ has established itself as one of the highest-profile startups in the software sector that will operate at least partially on quantum computers.
Notably, AQ is short for AI and quantum, which are services Sandbox has said it uses to overcome pressing global challenges. It employs 60 engineers, technologists, and scientists who collaborate on physics, cryptography, AI, chemistry, neuroscience, mathematics, and other disciplines to develop solutions for several users.
Representatives were quoted saying that the company is building and implementing apps, hardware, and services that leverage machine learning & AI infrastructures with quantum technologies. So far, this technology had been limited to theoretical study and scientific papers at research institutes.
Sandbox AQ raised an unstated amount of cash for the inauguration, and added the CEO & Founder of Breyer Capital, Jim Breyer to its board of advisors, cited sources close to the matter.
Meanwhile, as Google let’s go of Sandbox AQ, it is planning a USD 5.4 billion outlay for acquiring cybersecurity firm Mandiant, a move that will strengthen Google Cloud’s security systems and offer better protection to its customers.
The all-cash deal which is expected to be finalized at USD 23 per share includes Mandiant’s net cash and is close later this year. Mandiant will be merged into Google Cloud to form an end-to-end security operations suite.
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