The accelerating progress of quantum computing is pushing the cryptocurrency industry to confront risks that were once considered distant. Modern blockchains secure trillions of dollars using cryptographic systems such as elliptic curve signatures. While these methods remain reliable today, experts broadly expect them to become vulnerable once sufficiently powerful quantum computers are operational. Although the exact timeline remains uncertain, the direction of technological progress is clear, prompting a shift from theoretical discussion to early-stage implementation of quantum-resistant solutions.
Within this environment, qLABS, a crypto-focused foundation, has emerged with a strategy centered on post-quantum cryptography. The organization is preparing to introduce its first quantum-resistant token, known as qONE, supported by its Quantum-Sig wallet infrastructure. A limited presale for the token has been scheduled for early February, marking one of the more concrete attempts to deploy quantum-ready tools rather than simply researching them.
A Quantum-Native Design Philosophy
qLABS characterizes its approach as quantum-native, meaning its systems are designed from the outset to resist future quantum attacks instead of being retrofitted later. According to the foundation’s leadership, waiting for slow, protocol-level upgrades across major blockchains could leave assets exposed for years. They have indicated that many existing initiatives remain fragmented, focusing on research, partial protocol updates, or wallet improvements, while failing to offer immediate protection for assets already held on public networks.
The foundation’s primary concern centers on the harvest now, decrypt later threat. In this scenario, attackers collect encrypted data or public keys today with the expectation that quantum computers will eventually be able to break them. In blockchain environments, this risk is amplified because digital signatures are fundamental to wallet security and proof of ownership.
Layering Security Onto Existing Blockchains
Rather than launching an entirely new blockchain, qLABS has chosen to focus on adding a quantum-resistant layer to established networks such as Ethereum, Solana, and Hyperliquid. The initial emphasis is on protecting assets at the wallet and transaction layer. This design allows users to opt into quantum protection without needing to migrate funds to a new chain or ecosystem.
The technical foundation of this approach combines post-quantum cryptography with zero-knowledge proofs. The system is built on IronCAP, a code-based cryptographic framework aligned with standards published by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology. One of the more distinctive elements is a dual-signature transaction model. Under this structure, transactions require the conventional signature recognized by the underlying blockchain as well as a second, quantum-resistant signature, adding an extra layer of defense without breaking compatibility.
— qLABS (@qlabsofficial) January 29, 2026
Industry-Wide Momentum Builds
The efforts by qLABS reflect a broader shift across the blockchain sector toward preparing for quantum-era risks. Major industry players have begun to acknowledge the issue more openly. Several years ago, Coinbase established an independent advisory board focused on quantum computing and blockchain security, bringing together researchers, academics, and protocol developers. The group was tasked with producing assessments and guidance to help institutions plan for long-term quantum threats. Coinbase Ventures has also backed initiatives developing staged approaches to post-quantum security.
Other blockchain ecosystems are moving in similar directions. The Ethereum Foundation has elevated post-quantum security to a strategic priority, allocating funding for research and incentive programs focused on alternative cryptographic methods. Aptos has also discussed adopting a post-quantum signature scheme aligned with NIST standards, favoring early and conservative implementation even at the cost of efficiency.
Shrinking Timelines and Early Infrastructure
Recent research suggests that the number of qubits required to compromise widely used elliptic curve signatures has declined faster than previously expected. Some projections now point to the early or mid-2030s as a plausible window for cryptographically relevant quantum machines. Even conservative forecasts acknowledge that migration planning must begin well before such systems arrive.
Against this backdrop, qLABS is positioning qONE and the Quantum-Sig wallet as early infrastructure rather than experimental technology. The qONE token is designed to function as an access mechanism for quantum-secure transaction services, with usage-based fees instead of subscription models. Through this approach, qLABS aims to provide practical, deployable protection at a time when the industry is increasingly accepting that quantum readiness is no longer optional but inevitable.
