Finnish entrepreneur Peter Sarlin is spearheading a new venture aimed at helping companies prepare for the next phase of quantum computing and artificial intelligence.

The move comes about 18 months after AMD acquired Sarlin’s startup Silo AI for $665 million, marking one of Europe’s largest AI-related deals.

Sarlin has since stepped down as CEO of the AMD Silo AI unit and is now serving as chairman of two new initiatives: NestAI, a physical AI research lab, and QuTwo, an enterprise-focused AI startup.

An AI Platform Built for the Quantum Future

QuTwo describes itself as “an AI lab for the quantum era,” focusing on helping companies prepare for the eventual shift from classical to quantum computing systems.

Instead of waiting for quantum technology to mature fully, the startup is already working with enterprise clients to develop new AI-driven solutions.

One such collaboration is with Zalando, a major European fashion retailer.

The partnership is developing “lifestyle agents,” advanced AI systems designed to suggest personalized products and experiences rather than relying on traditional product search tools.

Bridging Classical and Quantum Computing

The company’s strategy centers on a platform called QuTwo OS, an orchestration layer designed to help businesses gradually move from classical computing toward hybrid quantum systems.

According to Sarlin, the goal is to allow companies to integrate quantum and traditional computing environments without needing to manage complex infrastructure themselves.

This approach reflects the growing belief that quantum computing could eventually outperform classical systems in areas such as optimization, logistics, and complex simulations.

Investment in the Quantum Ecosystem

Sarlin’s investment firm PostScriptum has already backed several Finnish quantum technology companies, including IQM and QMill.

These investments align with a broader view among technology investors that quantum computing could transform industrial computing while reducing the energy demands of modern AI systems.

However, Sarlin believes the early years of quantum adoption will rely heavily on hybrid computing systems combining both classical and quantum hardware.

Quantum-Inspired Computing Already in Use

In the meantime, QuTwo is also exploring “quantum-inspired” computing, which uses classical processors to simulate certain quantum behaviors.

This approach allows companies to begin experimenting with advanced computational models before fully operational quantum hardware becomes widely available.

QuTwo OS has therefore been designed to support both quantum and non-quantum algorithms, ensuring flexibility as the technology evolves.

Experienced Leadership Driving the Project

QuTwo’s leadership team includes experts from both the quantum computing and enterprise AI sectors.

Key contributors include IQM co-founder Kuan Yen Tan, technology executive Antti Vasara, and former Nokia CEO Pekka Lundmark, who now serves on the company’s board.

The startup currently employs more than 30 scientists specializing in AI and quantum technologies, highlighting its strong technical foundation.

Early Commercial Partnerships Emerging

Beyond its work with Zalando, QuTwo has also launched a quantum AI research initiative with OP Pohjola, a major Finnish financial services company.

Sarlin says the company’s mission is clear: helping enterprises prepare their AI systems for a future where quantum computing plays a central role.

While the timeline for widespread quantum adoption remains uncertain, QuTwo aims to ensure businesses are technologically ready when that shift arrives.