TOPPAN Holdings and Keio University conducted a demonstration experiment combining a quantum computer and generative AI to generate manga and anime images. They confirmed that a core image specifying hairstyle and facial expression could be generated using a quantum circuit, with AI supplementing elements such as the background to produce a 256×256-pixel color image.
Keio University and TOPPAN Holdings conducted a demonstration experiment in generating manga and animation images by combining a quantum computer with generative AI from 1 February to 31 July 2026. The experiment combined Keio's expertise in quantum information science with TOPPAN's AI technology, using quantum flow matching to generate core images and testing a hybrid model in which AI supplemented the generation, coloring and resolution enhancement of backgrounds.
As a result of the demonstration, the parties confirmed that a quantum computer could generate 16×16-pixel grayscale images specifying hairstyle and facial expression, and that it could accurately produce outputs according to the specified conditions even under the influence of noise. They also demonstrated that AI supplementation made it possible to output 256×256-pixel color images.
The results of this research were made public after Keio University Bio2Q and TOPPAN's joint project, Qrazy Qreators, won third place in NEDO's prize-based program, "Development of Social Problem Solutions Using Quantum Computers." The project was also selected for Season 2, and a research phase is scheduled to begin with the aim of improving resolution and conditioning images through natural-language instructions.
Looking ahead to applications such as 3D and 4D scene generation, the parties will promote the development of applications that support creators and contribute to the sustainable development of the content industry.