IonQ CEO Niccolo de Masi predicts that Q-Day, the point at which quantum computers can break current encryption standards, will occur in 2028. The company estimates that cracking 256-bit elliptic-curve signatures, which secure Bitcoin transactions, requires 19,400 to 20,000 physical qubits. Executing Shor’s algorithm at this scale would take approximately 26 days of continuous computation.
IonQ’s hardware roadmap includes the delivery of 256-qubit Superion systems by 2027, with a goal of reaching 10,000 physical qubits by 2028. The company notes that elliptic-curve cryptography is more vulnerable to quantum attacks than RSA-2048. Meanwhile, Google has updated its internal timeline for migrating to post-quantum cryptography to 2029.
Blockchain networks face challenges in updating their cryptographic foundations due to the need for consensus across decentralized nodes. While addresses that have never broadcast transactions remain relatively secure, those that have are potentially exposed. Alternatives such as lattice-based and hash-based signature schemes are currently being standardized.
In summer 2026, the White House issued an executive order on quantum security, mandating that federal agencies begin migration planning. IonQ has introduced a full-stack offering that includes quantum hardware and post-quantum software to assist organizations in strengthening their defenses.
IonQ has revised its 2026 revenue guidance upward. The company attributes this adjustment to increased demand from clients who are now allocating specific budget lines to address quantum risks.
