STMicroelectronics (NYSE: STM), a global leader in semiconductor solutions, has revealed its new optical interconnect technology aimed at enhancing performance in data centers and AI clusters. As AI computing demands continue to rise, challenges related to performance and energy efficiency across computing, memory, power supply, and interconnections are becoming more pronounced. ST is tackling these issues with the introduction of advanced silicon photonics and BiCMOS technologies, which are expected to launch in the second half of 2025. These technologies will support 800Gb/s and 1.6Tb/s optical modules.
Optical transceivers are essential components in data center interconnections, enabling the conversion of optical signals into electrical signals and vice versa. This conversion allows for the transfer of data between GPUs, switches, and storage systems. With its new silicon photonics (SiPho) technology, STMicroelectronics is making it possible for customers to integrate multiple complex components onto a single chip. Additionally, the company’s BiCMOS technology will offer high-speed, low-power optical connectivity, crucial for supporting the rapid growth of AI.
“AI-driven demand is pushing the need for faster communication in data centers. This is the perfect time for ST to introduce our energy-efficient silicon photonics and next-gen BiCMOS technology, helping customers develop advanced optical interconnect products with 800Gbps/1.6Tbps solutions,” said Remi El-Ouazzane, President of the Microcontrollers, Digital ICs, and RF Products Group at STMicroelectronics. “These technologies will be produced on 300mm processes in Europe, ensuring a reliable, high-volume supply of critical optical module components. This is just the beginning of our photonic integrated circuit (PIC) product family, and we aim to become a leading supplier for data centers and AI clusters.”
Amazon Web Services (AWS) has shown strong support for the new silicon photonics technology. Nafea Bshara, Vice President and Distinguished Engineer at AWS, commented, “We are excited to collaborate with STMicroelectronics on their SiPho technology, which will enable seamless interconnection across workloads, including AI applications.”
Industry expert Dr. Vladimir Kozlov, CEO and Chief Analyst at LightCounting, highlighted the significant growth potential in the pluggable optics market for data centers, which is projected to grow from $7 billion in 2024 to over $24 billion by 2030. He also noted that silicon photonics modulators are expected to dominate the market, increasing from a 30% share in 2024 to 60% by 2030.
STMicroelectronics, known for its leadership in the semiconductor industry, is committed to innovation and sustainability. The company has set a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2027. With a workforce of over 50,000 employees and more than 200,000 customers, ST is focused on developing solutions for smarter mobility, efficient energy management, and the widespread adoption of connected autonomous systems.
