This new type of quantum computer uses sound instead of light

Plus: A robotic baby Groot will soon be roaming Disney parks Quantum computers that rely on manipulating photons of light have become familiar, but what if sound could be used in this way too? In a remarkable breakthrough, researchers have successfully split phonons, the quantum particles of sound waves, paving the way for a new type of quantum computer. This achievement could revolutionize the field of quantum computing and lead to the development of powerful linear mechanical quantum computers. Read more about the implications of using sound for quantum computation in today’s [Must Read story](. But first, your video of the day looks at some of [Summer 2023’s hottest gadgets](. Good morning. I’m Tim, an Editor at IE. This is the Blueprint. Let's unpack the week. Last Sunday, Blueprint subscribers learned how picking up new skills and interests in old age may have the power to slow cognitive aging. Don't miss out — [subscribe to IE+]( today to receive exclusive interviews, features, and much more. VIDEO OF THE DAY [20 coolest gadgets]( [20 coolest gadgets that you will need this summer]( Make the most of Summer with the help of these incredible tech gadgets. Whether you enjoy a refreshing swim in a clean pool, effortlessly tend a thriving garden, host unforgettable outdoor gatherings, or stay connected on your summer adventures, these innovative devices will enhance your experience. MUST READ [Quantum computer]( [New study shows ‘splitting’ sound allows a new type of quantum computer]( Scientists have achieved a major breakthrough in quantum computing by splitting phonons, the quantum particles associated with sound waves. This advancement opens the door for linear mechanical quantum computers. Led by Prof. Andrew Cleland from the University of Chicago, the researchers used an acoustic beamsplitter to split phonons and observed fundamental quantum phenomena. They demonstrated interference and entanglement, where the state of one qubit depends on others. In another experiment, they showed two-phonon interference, similar to the Hong-Ou-Mandel effect with photons. These findings confirm that phonons can exhibit quantum behaviors and pave the way for powerful quantum computers. The study is a significant step towards harnessing the potential of quantum computing and expanding our understanding of quantum phenomena. Click below to learn more. [Read More]( INNOVATION A robotic baby Groot will soon be roaming Disney parks Disney’s Imagineering team describes their new character as a “free-roaming robotic actor that can take on the role of our similarly-sized Disney characters.” The machine is still being tested so it may be a while till we can see it live and perhaps hug it. However, when it does come to audiences worldwide it will be a sight not to be missed. [Read More]( THE SPONSOR OF THE DAY [How about having music coming out of a rock?]( Sounds a weird idea, right? But if you’re planning to spend a majority of your summer days outdoors, the Innovative Technology Rock Speakers are a perfect way to blend with nature and enjoy your favorite melodies. They look like rocks, and are as tough and durable, providing 50 hours of run time in a single charge. Get [the rock speakers]( and enjoy the bliss of your favorite tunes - coming straight out of nature! TRANSPORTATION NASA worried about SpaceX's lander delays, Artemis 3 in jeopardy? Potential delays on SpaceX delivering on its $2.89 billion contract have cast doubts on NASA’s Artemis 3 mission, scheduled to take humans back to the moon for the first time since 1972. “With the difficulties that SpaceX has had, I think that’s really concerning. You can think about that slipping probably into ‘26,” said Jim Free, the NASA associate administrator for exploration systems development. [Read More]( SCIENCE Artificial photosynthesis could help astronauts breathe on Mars A study published in the scientific journal Nature Communications assesses the viability of replacing existing oxygen and fuel production systems with photoelectrochemical (PEC) devices. This process is similar to photosynthesis in plants. Not only would it drastically diminish the weight and volume of the system, but it would also provide significant gains in terms of efficiency. [Read More]( [Lexicon podcast]( MAIL & MUSINGS NASA's Artemis III mission will be the first crewed lunar landing since Apollo 17 in December 1972. When do you think it will happen? [2025, as planned]( [2026 more likely]( [Later than 2026]( [It won't happen]( YESTERDAY'S RESULTS Over half of you said we can still control AI, or that it well help humanity flourish, but 28 percent said that the world is already under AI control. 33% Yes, we can still control it 28% No, its AI’s world now 20% I'm not sure 19% AI will help humans flourish QUOTE OF THE DAY The success of the two-phonon interference experiment is the final piece showing that phonons are equivalent to photons. Professor Andrew Cleland THINGS WE LOVE [Ostrichpillow]( [ROCKPALS RP82 Solar Panel]( [BLACK + DECKER Remote Control Air Conditioner]( [Furrion Lippert RV Air Conditioner]( AND ANOTHER THING - China to launch [moon-orbiting telescope to explore the universe's Dark Ages by 2026]( - [How insect-inspired microphones are revolutionizing our hearing]( - [3D printing, drones and robots]( to tackle construction labor shortages - [Engineering bacteria in the quest for green biomanufacturing solutions]( [premium] - Architects have created [biodegradable building blocks using fungus]( - Scientists are [using AI to make an atlas of human brain cells]( - Ancient giants: [An epic quest to reach the tallest known tree in the Amazon]( (Nature) [Subcribe to IE+]( [About Us]( [Advertise]( [Contact Us]( [Privacy Policy]( [Term of Service]( © Copyright 2023 | The Blueprint is by Interesting Engineering, Inc. 530 Fifth Ave, 9th floor New York, NY 10036 | All Rights Reserved You are receiving this email because you have subscribed to our newsletter. 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