A central goal in quantum optics and quantum information science is the development of quantum networks to generate entanglement between distributed quantum memories. Experimental progress relies on the quality and efficiency of the light–matter quantum interface connecting the quantum states of photons to internal states of quantum emitters. Quantum emitters in solids, which have properties resembling those of atoms and ions, offer an opportunity for realizing light–matter quantum interfaces in scalable and compact hardware. These quantum emitters require a material platform that enables stable spin and optical properties, as well as a robust manufacturing of quantum photonic circuits. Because no emitter system is yet perfect and different applications may require different properties, several light–matter quantum interfaces are being developed in various platforms. This Review highlights the progress in three leading material platforms: diamond, silicon carbide and atomically thin semiconductors.

量子光学和量子信息科学的中心目标是发展量子网络，以在分布式量子存储器之间产生纠缠。实验的进展取决于光子量子界面的质量和效率，该界面将光子的量子态与量子发射体的内部态联系起来。固体中具有类似于原子和离子的性质的量子发射器，为在可扩展且紧凑的硬件中实现光-物质量子接口提供了机会。这些量子发射器需要能够实现稳定的自旋和光学特性以及可靠地制造量子光子电路的材料平台。由于尚无完善的发射器系统，并且不同的应用程序可能需要不同的属性，在各种平台上正在开发几个光物质量子接口。这篇评论重点介绍了三个主要材料平台的进展：金刚石，碳化硅和原子薄半导体。