https://phys.org/news/2018-09-pristine-quantum-source-edge-silicon.html

Single photons, which are an example of quantum light, are more than just really dim light. This distinction has a lot to do with where the light comes from. "Pretty much all of the light we encounter in our everyday lives is packed with photons," says Elizabeth Goldschmidt, a researcher at the US Army Research Laboratory and co-author on the study. "But unlike a light bulb, there are some sources that actually emit light, one photon at time, and this can only be described by quantum physics," adds Goldschmidt.

Many researchers are working on building reliable quantum light emitters so that they can isolate and control the quantum properties of single photons. Goldschmidt explains that such light sources will likely be important for future quantum information devices as well as further understanding the mysteries of quantum physics. "Modern communications relies heavily on non-quantum light," says Goldschmidt. "Similarly, many of us believe that single photons are going to be required for any kind of quantum communication application out there."