Smartphones of the Future: Embedded QRNG Chips for Enhanced Security

In the wake of Samsung trialling the use of quantum random number generation (QRNG) technology in their smartphones, let’s take a look at what this technology does, how it’s developed, and its benefits. 

What are QRNGs?

Put simply, RNGs generate a string of numbers, letters, or characters in a random, nonsequential order. RNGs can be roughly categorized into two distinct groups – pseudo-RNGs (PRNGs) and true RNGs (TRNGs).

PRNGs are most common for applications where there is a need for them to be embedded in a code or webpage. Take online casino games – PRNGs are a key part of the programming, as they digitize the aspect of chance you’d get from spinning a wheel, rolling a dice, or dropping a ball at random. When players try their hand at an online Plinko game, RNGs determine where the ball travels, where it bounces, how it diverges from its path, and ultimately which box it falls into, based on the player’s original input. This ensures that the result of the game is entirely down to statistical randomness, making the gameplay more engaging and authentic.

Elsewhere, TRNGs are often used for applications that require more security or additional levels of randomness. These devices require a physical entropy source, making the results even more unpredictable. One type of TRNGs is, of course, the QRNG. QRNGs utilize the multiplicity and duality of quantum mechanics, where something can be and not be simultaneously. This means that the results of a QRNG are truly undeterminable, and nonsequential numbers are generated using sensors that pick up the positioning of the physical entropy source once it has passed through the device. 

Development of QRNG Chips

As you may imagine, traditionally, QRNGs or any TRNG for that matter have tended to be pretty bulky. However, thanks to continuous innovation, QRNGs can now be produced in the size of a computer chip, which can be embedded into various devices. For example, The Toshiba QRNG-DL-E measures just 6mm², but can generate random numbers at a high speed of 2 Gbits^-1. 

The scale was achieved by using photonic integrated circuits (PIC), which also allows them to be mass-produced. Toshiba’s offering uses two lasers whose pulses are made to interfere with one another. These signals are processed into a random current signal, which is then picked up by a detector, before being converted into random bits. 

Taking this one step further, Samsung has launched the Galaxy Quantum 5, which features an embedded QRNG-powered security chip, in partnership with ID Quantique. The QRNG works alongside Samsung’s Knox security software, as well as further authenticators and encryption strategies to provide enhanced security. Users will be notified when their service is being secured by QRNGs, and sensitive, biometric, and authentication data is automatically protected by the high-level security procedures. 

As you can see, QRNGs are already seeing vast transformation – from the shrinking size they need to occupy, to the accessibility and demand for their mass adoption. Whilst Samsung’s Galaxy Quantum 5 might be then pioneer smartphone device to use this technology, it is only logical that others may follow. And with tablets, laptops, and other gadgets also requiring protection, who knows what the future will hold.