Photonic Chips for Universal Quantum Computing: Retrospective and Prospective

Abstract: Integrated photonic quantum chips have emerged as a promising platform for realizing fault-tolerant photonic quantum computers. Compared with bulk-optics systems, integrated photonics offer compact device footprints, enhanced programmability, and exceptional stability, attributes that are essential for executing large-scale and computationally demanding quantum tasks. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of recent advances in both discrete-variable and continuous-variable universal photonic quantum computation. We survey progress in fault-tolerant architectures and state-of-the-art integrated platforms and highlight the key challenges that must be addressed to scale photonic systems toward full fault tolerance. Finally, we outline future opportunities and research directions aimed at bridging the gap between current proof-of-principle demonstrations and fully scalable quantum microprocessors.