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Quantum random number generation is a key ingredient for quantum cryptography and fundamental quantum optics and could advance Monte Carlo simulations and machine learning. An established generation scheme is based on single photons impinging on a beam splitter. Here, we experimentally demonstrate quantum random number generation solely based on the symmetric emission profile of a dipole aligned orthogonal to the laboratory frame. The demonstration builds on defect centers in hexagonal boron nitride that emit photons in random directions within the dipole emission profile and benefits from the ability to manipulate and align the emission directionality. We prove the randomness in correlated photon detection events making use of the NIST randomness test suite and show that the randomness remains for two independently emitting defect centers. The scheme can be extended to random number generation by coherent single photons with potential applications in solid-state based quantum communication at room temperature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on Mechanical decoupling of quantum emitters in hexagonal boron nitride from low-energy phonon modes. It mentions investigating the dipole emission directionality and reveal preferred photon emission through channels between the layers supporting the claim for out-of-plane distorted defect centers.