A recent breakthrough in sending information using light could lead to gadgets with ultra-low energy consumption.
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Researchers have shown how to use a quantum effect known as nonlinearity to modify and detect faint light signals. The development could eventually be used in personal electronic devices. But don't expect to see a quantum gadget at Best Buy anytime soon.
“The approach described in this paper is relevant and interesting, but it seems a long way from actual implementation,” said Scott Hanson, founder and chief technology officer of Ambiq, a company specializing in energy-efficient appliances, in an email interview.
"The chips used in today's latest gadgets are based on much the same silicon-based 'switches' that have been around for decades. Even small changes in the way these chips are manufactured take many years to implement."
