Quantum Nanophotonics: Advancing Computing and Networks

https://www.ihadnoclue.com/article/1082584320017072129

Quantum nanophotonics is emerging as a revolutionary field that combines quantum physics with nanoscale photonics to transform computing potentially. Unlike traditional electronic circuits using electrons, these systems utilize photons (light particles) to process information, offering solutions to quantum computing's persistent challenges of decoherence and scalability. Recent breakthroughs by MIT, Caltech, and USTC researchers include creating nanoscale structures that can trap individual photons and manipulate their quantum states with unprecedented precision. A significant advancement came in 2023 when USTC researchers developed nanophotonic waveguides maintaining quantum coherence at 4 Kelvin—much warmer than previous systems required—potentially making quantum computers more practical for widespread use. Meanwhile, Caltech demonstrated the first nanophotonic quantum repeater with 97.4% fidelity, a crucial development for the quantum internet. Commercial applications are emerging, with companies like PsiQuantum (which has raised over $665 million) planning to deploy photonic quantum computers by 2025, while other industries explore applications in healthcare, finance, automotive navigation, and energy sectors.