Turning Sound into Quantum Memory

Caltech researchers have designed a new kind of hybrid quantum memory that transforms electrical signals into sound waves, allowing fragile quantum states to last up to 30 times longer than in conventional superconducting systems.

At the heart of their innovation is a microscopic mechanical oscillator, functioning much like a tiny tuning fork. This breakthrough could mark a major step toward building scalable and reliable quantum storage.

Figure 1. Moving Practical Quantum Computing.

Qubits vs. Classical Bits

Classical computers rely on bits, which can only be 0 or 1. Quantum computers, however, use qubits—which, thanks to the principle of superposition, can exist as 0 and 1 simultaneously. This unique property gives quantum machines the power to tackle problems beyond the reach of today’s fastest supercomputers.

Most current quantum computers are built on superconducting circuits, where electrons flow without resistance at near-absolute-zero temperatures. These systems excel at performing fast and complex operations, but they fall short when it comes to storing quantum information. Preserving qubits over time remains one of the biggest hurdles in the field. Figure 1 shows moving practical quantum computing.

Extending Quantum Lifetimes with Sound

The Caltech team, led by graduate students Alkim Bozkurt and Omid Golami under the guidance of Mohammad Mirhosseini, assistant professor of electrical engineering and applied physics, found a solution: convert electricity into sound [1]. Their approach, published in Nature Physics, keeps superconducting qubits stable far longer than previous methods.

“Once you create a quantum state, you might not want to use it right away,” Mirhosseini explains. “You need a way to come back to it later when you’re ready to perform a logical operation. That’s where quantum memory comes in.”

Harnessing Phonons

Mirhosseini’s group had already shown that phonons—the quantum particles of vibration, much like photons are particles of light—could be ideal carriers for quantum information. Their experiments revealed that these sound-based systems match the ultra-high gigahertz frequencies of superconducting qubits, function at cryogenic temperatures, and maintain long lifetimes.

By pairing qubits with sound, the team has brought quantum storage a step closer to reality—paving the way for more practical and durable quantum computers.

Reference:

1. https://scitechdaily.com/sound-waves-unlock-a-new-path-to-practical-quantum-computing/

Cite this article:

Keerthana S (2025), Harnessing Sound Waves: A Breakthrough Route to Practical Quantum Computing, AnaTechMaz, pp.342