Intel CEO Lip-Bu Tan discussed his use of agentic AI during a recent appearance on the QuantumJane podcast, stating that autonomous AI systems now handle much of his research workload. He described starting each day by reviewing progress made by AI agents, which he said reduced his reliance on human assistants for preliminary tasks. Agentic AI, distinct from standard large language models, refers to systems capable of setting goals and executing actions independently, though such tools often carry high operational costs.

Tan revealed he has personally invested in quantum computing firms using his own capital rather than venture funds managed by his firm. His first investment was in IonQ, a company employing trapped ion technology where neutral ytterbium atoms are isolated in vacuum and manipulated with lasers to serve as qubits. IonQ claims this approach extends qubit coherence times and lowers cooling requirements compared to alternative quantum architectures. Tan noted he sold half of his IonQ holdings after the company went public but continues to monitor its developments.

The Intel CEO also expressed support for PsiQuantum, a photon-based quantum computing firm utilizing silicon photonic chips manufactured through conventional semiconductor processes. He highlighted the company's ability to leverage existing fabrication infrastructure and its potential for faster operations with reduced cooling needs beyond detector components. Tan described photon-based systems as more scalable and noted his involvement following the appointment of former Xilinx executive Victor Peng as permanent CEO.

On software infrastructure, Tan praised Israeli startup Classic for its focus on quantum applications in chemistry and medicine. He emphasized the importance of identifying practical use cases to drive adoption, stating that successful scaling depends on clear market demand. The CEO also mentioned interest in emerging semiconductor materials including silicon carbide and indium phosphide, alongside innovations like microfluidic cooling systems that integrate cooling channels directly into chip designs and artificial diamonds with superior thermal properties.

Throughout the discussion, Tan framed these technologies as areas where market-driven applications, rather than technical capability alone, would determine long-term viability in computing's next generation.