This simple twist could bring quantum computers closer to reality By simply twisting atom-thin layers, scientists gained remarkable control over quantum light sourcesâbringing practical quantum technologies a step closer. - Date: - June 20, 2026 - Source: - University of Technology Sydney - Summary: - Researchers found that twisting layered sheets of hexagonal boron nitride can dramatically change the light produced by quantum emitters embedded within the material. The technique offers an unexpected new level of control over components that could power future quantum computers, communications systems, and sensors. - Share: Researchers at the University of Technology Sydney have demonstrated a new way to control tiny sources of quantum light by twisting atomically thin layers of hexagonal boron nitride. The advance provides scientists with a new method for tuning quantum emitters, which are microscopic light sources that could play an important role in future technologies such as quantum computing, secure communications, and ultra-sensitive sensors. Lead author Dr. Angus Gale said the work offers researchers a valuable new tool for making these quantum systems more practical. "You can measure these quantum emitters and see that they exist, but it's hard to make them work in practice. This gives us a lever to get closer to that -- a step towards the realization of quantum technologies," said Dr. Gale. Twisting Layers Changes Quantum Light During the experiments, Gale and his team found that twisting the material could significantly alter both the color and wavelength of the light emitted by the quantum emitters. The magnitude of the change was especially noteworthy. Most studies create a device at a specific twist angle and leave it unchanged. In contrast, the researchers were able to repeatedly lift, rotate, and restack the material, allowing them to continuously modify its properties. "We're leveraging the fact that this material,