Artificial Intelligence Accelerates the Evolution of Photonics Technology, According to CloudPhotonix CTO

Artificial intelligence has significantly accelerated the development of photonics technology, according to Sunil Khatana, CTO and co-founder of CloudPhotonix. Speaking at a tech seminar in India, Khatana noted that while AI has expedited progress for the next few years, further innovation is essential beyond that period. Photonics involves the study and application of photons, especially in fibre optics.

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CloudPhotonix, headquartered in Noida, focuses on developing advanced photonics technology and has begun manufacturing transceivers. These devices convert electrical signals into optical ones and vice versa during transmission. Khatana, who previously worked with US firms and is now based in Silicon Valley, mentioned that CloudPhotonix has established a wholly-owned subsidiary in the US.

AI's Role in Photonics

During his presentation, Khatana highlighted how AI and machine learning are transforming technology infrastructure within photonics. He explained that AI requires large datasets for training models, which involves numerous GPUs working together to process data efficiently. Fast connections are crucial here, and this is where photonics-based transceivers play a vital role by ensuring rapid connectivity.

Khatana emphasised the need for fast, low-power transceivers in AI applications compared to conventional data centres. This demand has shortened the development timeline for photonics technology over the next few years. However, he stressed that continued innovation will be necessary beyond this period to meet evolving needs.

CloudPhotonix's Vision

The company's vision is to become India's leading photonics provider, starting with high-speed transceivers. "We are manufacturing and designing here," Khatana stated. The aim is to implement this model in India first before expanding globally. CEO Tarun Sibal added that CloudPhotonix is building photonics infrastructure within India.

Sibal explained that the seminar aimed to educate stakeholders about photonics, addressing misconceptions due to India's import-driven environment. He described photonics as essential for transferring large data volumes over long distances using light instead of copper. Transceivers act like valves controlling data flow, similar to how heart valves regulate blood flow.

Currently, photonics is often associated with telecommunications or switching systems due to its role in digital data transmission. However, Sibal pointed out that its applications extend beyond this scope into areas like sensing, quantum computing, and display systems. Manufacturing also utilises photonics through high-speed fibre lasers for various purposes.

Future Plans and Developments

CloudPhotonix was established 1.5 years ago and initially focused on transmission technology as a foundation for future growth. The company is scaling production for lower speeds like 10G-25G while developing a complete "Make in India" product for higher speeds such as 100G and above.

Regarding their 100G project status, Sibal confirmed they are on track with R&D talent working from both Bengaluru and Noida labs. The first prototype is expected by mid-next year with production slated for early 2026 covering distances up to 10 km.

In photonics transmission technology categorisation includes SR4 (a few hundred metres), LR4 (10 km), ER4 (40 km), and ZR4 (80 km). Sibal noted that 10G remains in demand within India but anticipates increased demand for higher speeds like 25G or even 100G over the next two decades due to edge data centres' emergence.

CloudPhotonix aims to address these evolving market needs by leveraging its expertise in photonics technology development while contributing significantly towards India's technological advancement landscape through innovative solutions tailored specifically for local requirements.