Via the Rochester Business Journal
Quantum computing promises to be a gamechanger for almost every industry, from predicting weather more accurately and boosting cybersecurity, to speeding breakthroughs in research and artificial intelligence. While the timeline to bring practical quantum computing to market is still years away, those racing to make it a reality know that harnessing light as a carrier of information is critical to their progress.
To detect even the lowest signal strengths of light, high-sensitive detectors are essential. Superconducting nanowire single photon detectors (SNSPDs) are currently the light detector of choice for their high efficiency and speed. However, limitations like the need for cryogenic cooling—which makes SNSPDs expensive and bulky—plus challenges in scaling up to large array sizes and integrating them with other components, make them less than ideal for widespread use.
Since 2020, Pixel Photonics GmbH, based in Münster, Germany, has been working to solve these issues by developing a unique approach to single-photon detection. The company’s waveguide-integrating superconducting nanowire single-photon detectors, or WI-SNSPDs, can detect single particles of light, known as photons, with exceptional speed and precision, while being directly integrated onto photonic chips. This enables the detectors to be manufactured at scale using industry-standard processes, making them both powerful and cost-effective.
The breakthrough, based on eight years of research, was initially focused on quantum photonics. As interest in quantum technologies grew, the team recognized the need for a market-ready solution.
“It quickly became clear that the potential of our platform extended far beyond quantum,” said Nicolai Walter, Pixel Photonics’ co-founder and CEO. “We saw how our detectors could unlock new possibilities for microscopy, medical diagnostics, and advanced communication— all fields where the highest performing light detectors could not yet be adopted.”
Progressing to serve multiple markets
Hitting strategic milestones is key to this growth. Pixel’s detectors are already being used in quantum computing technology to help solve complex problems beyond the reach of traditional computers, as well as in quantum communication to enable ultra-secure data transfer. A major turning point for Pixel was securing its first funding round, led by HTGF and Quantonation. “The investment allowed us to significantly expand our team, scale our capabilities, and build strong partnerships with leading international players like QuiX Quantum and DLR,” shared Walter. Additional funding from SPRIND is helping advance the detectors into multimode detection, which is essential for markets like medical imaging and diagnostics. Today, Pixel Photonics is the only provider of spectrally broadband, polarization-insensitive SNSPDs that scale cost-effectively using commercial foundries. Their system-level products are turn-key, maintenance-light, and ready for integration by OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers).
The companies of Luminate cohort 8 will compete for $2 million in follow-on funding at Luminate Finals 2025 on October 22. The program is funded by Empire State Development’s Finger Lakes Forward Upstate Revitalization Initiative. For more information about the Luminate accelerator and Finals 2025, visit luminate.org.