Quantum entanglement

Physics

Nanotechnology

Quantum technology

Qubit

Quantum state

Quantum network

Open quantum system

Quantum simulator

Quantum information

Materials science

Condensed matter physics

Spins

Quantum information science

Quantum computer

Quantum mechanics

Optoelectronics

Quantum

Quantum sensor

Quantum metrology

Nature Photonics

Spins of impurities in solids provide a unique architecture to realize quantum technologies. A quantum register of electron and nearby nuclear spins in the lattice encompasses high-fidelity state manipulation and readout, long-lived quantum memory, and long-distance transmission of quantum states by optical transitions that coherently connect spins and photons. These features, combined with solid-state device engineering, establish impurity spins as promising resources for quantum networks, information processing and sensing. Focusing on optical methods for the access and connectivity of single spins, we review recent progress in impurity systems such as colour centres in diamond and silicon carbide, rare-earth ions in solids and donors in silicon. We project a possible path to chip-scale quantum technologies through sustained advances in nanofabrication, quantum control and materials engineering. This Review covers recent progress in quantum technologies with optically addressable solid-state spins. A possible path to chip-scale quantum technologies through advances in nanofabrication, quantum control and materials engineering is described.

Quantum technologies with optically interfaced solid-state spins