Warwick Researchers Build Quantum Bus In Push For 1M Qubits

Researchers at The University of Warwick and NRC Canada are proposing a new communication system for quantum computers using sound-like vibrations within a specialized material. The team reports a concept called Quantum Phononic Links (QPLs), which employs phonons to enable qubits to exchange quantum information over distances exceeding current capabilities on a single semiconductor chip. This approach addresses a critical challenge as engineers anticipate needing to coordinate millions of qubits for useful quantum computation. “One of the key challenges in quantum computing is long-range qubit connectivity,” said Dr. Maksym Myronov, Department of Physics, University of Warwick. “Our work introduces a concept in which phonons act as a quantum bus, enabling distant qubits to exchange quantum information while remaining compatible with semiconductor technology.”

The team detailed their concept of Quantum Phononic Links (QPLs) in APL Quantum, proposing phonons, quantized vibrations, as a means to extend qubit communication ranges across an entire semiconductor chip. This addresses a critical limitation of current quantum processors, which largely restrict direct interaction to neighboring qubits. Unlike alternative long-range connection methods relying on microwaves or external acoustic waves, QPLs are integrated directly into the semiconductor material hosting the qubits. This integration offers potential advantages in compactness, cost, and scalability for future commercial quantum processors. The research, supported by the UK Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council and NRC Canada’s Quantum Sensing Program, extends a long-standing collaboration between the two institutions focused on semiconductor quantum technologies, building upon Warwick’s expertise in germanium materials.