Loss-tolerant distributed lattice surgery using fusion networks
A preprint proposes a scheme for performing distributed lattice surgery between matter-based quantum processors using photonic fusion networks, designed to tolerate photon loss and other link noise stronger than local noise. The work addresses the challenge of implementing logical operations across lossy, probabilistic photonic interconnects.
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What this could mean
- 0–2 yearsPlausible
If the protocol is validated, it could make it practical to demonstrate distributed lattice surgery between two small matter-based QPUs over photonic links within two years, providing an experimental path toward modular fault-tolerant quantum computing.
Existing matter-based QPUs and photonic interconnect hardware are already available, and the main barrier is link noise; a loss-tolerant protocol removes a key obstacle. Still, the scheme must first survive simulation and integration with real hardware, so the path is credible but not guaranteed.
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