Marvell and Tower hit 5 million chip milestone in AI networking push
Photonic integrated circuits aim to boost bandwidth and efficiency in data centers.
Marvell Technology and Tower Semiconductor said they have shipped more than five million coherent photonic integrated circuits (PICs) to Marvell’s global customers, marking a significant production milestone in optical chip technology designed for AI-driven data center networks.
The chips sit at the center of a fast-growing segment of semiconductor infrastructure: high-performance optical interconnects that enable data to move between servers in modern AI data centers. According to the companies, the shipments are being used to meet rising demand for bandwidth and efficiency in data center interconnect (DCI) networks.
Unlike simpler optical components, coherent PICs are complex devices that must control the phase and polarization of light in addition to amplitude, making their design and manufacturing requirements significantly more stringent than traditional direct-detect chips.
Marvell and Tower Semiconductor have both seen strong market performance alongside the expansion of AI-related infrastructure demand. Marvell’s valuation stands at a record $223 billion, up more than 220% so far this year, while Tower Semiconductor has reached a record $30 billion valuation, rising about 585% over the past year.
“As optical transceiver applications and requirements continue to evolve, photonics platforms must evolve to meet these requirements,” said Dr. Ed Preisler, Vice President and General Manager of the RF Business Unit at Tower Semiconductor. “This is especially true in the area of coherent optical transceivers. We are proud to collaborate with Marvell to stay at the forefront in this field.”
Tower Semiconductor said its work with Marvell includes advancing next-generation coherent technologies through process improvements such as integrating non-silicon materials, enabling 3D integration of electronics, and developing advanced optical packaging techniques including V-Grooves. These developments are intended to extend the performance and functionality of silicon photonics platforms.
