A simple low-latency real-time certifiable quantum random number generator

Quantum random numbers, distinguished by their intrinsic unpredictability rooted in quantum mechanics, are crucial for various applications. While high asymptotic generation rates are often prioritized, this necessitates numerous trials and high latency. This work demonstrates low-latency, real-time certifiable randomness generation using photonic time-bin states. Methods are developed to certify randomness despite adversarial imperfections in state preparation and measurement. Every 0.12 s, 8192 certifiable random bits are generated, with an error bounded by 2⁻⁶⁴, suitable for high-speed, high-security quantum randomness beacons.

Yanbao Zhang, Hsin-Pin Lo, Alan Mink, Takuya Ikuta, Toshimori Honjo, Hiroki Takesue, William J. Munro