IBM is expanding free access to quantum computing through the IBM Quantum Open Plan platform, increasing usage time and allowing access to the advanced ibm_kingston processor. Researchers who use 20 minutes in a year can receive a one-time offer of 180 minutes for the following 12 months. The platform previously only offered 10 minutes every 28 days, but the new update enables more complex tasks such as hybrid optimization and error reduction.
IBM is also adding training resources and courses on research planning and fundraising. This move comes amid discussions within the Bitcoin community about the risks posed by quantum computers. Over the past year, IBM has made progress with 120-qubit quantum systems and launched the Nighthawk chip, aiming for quantum advantage before 2026.