  The realization of a functional quantum repeater is one of the major research
goals in long-distance quantum communication. Among the different approaches
that are being followed, the one relying on quantum memories interfaced with
deterministic quantum emitters is considered as among one of the most promising
solutions. In this work, we focus on memory-based quantum-repeater schemes that
rely on semiconductor quantum dots for the generation of polarization entangled
photons. Going through the most relevant figures of merit related to efficiency
of the photon source, we select significant developments in fabrication,
processing and tuning techniques aimed at combining high degree of entanglement
with on-demand pair generation, with a special focus on the progress achieved
in the representative case of the GaAs system. We proceed to offer a
perspective on integration with quantum memories, both highlighting preliminary
works on natural-artificial atomic interfaces and commenting a wide choice of
currently available and potentially viable memory solutions in terms of
wavelength, bandwidth and noise-requirements. To complete the overview, we also
present recent implementations of entanglement-based quantum communication
protocols with quantum dots and highlight the next challenges ahead for the
implementation of practical quantum networks.
