Berlin-based Akhetonics has successfully raised €6 million (approximately $6.33 million) in seed funding, led by Matterwave Ventures, to develop general-purpose chips utilizing photonics technology.

Matterwave Ventures believes that advancements in technology make this an opportune time for all-optical computation, emphasizing the transformative potential of Akhetonics' innovations for the future of computing.

The investment from Matterwave Ventures, which specializes in early-stage hardware and software companies, aims to enhance European competitiveness in AI and dual-use applications.

Akhetonics is pioneering the world's first true all-optical processor, which exclusively uses light (photons) for information processing, moving beyond the traditional von Neumann architecture.

This all-optical technology promises higher performance, lower power consumption, and real-time processing capabilities that traditional electronic systems cannot achieve.

Key advantages of Akhetonics' technology include low latency, deterministic execution, and immunity to electromagnetic interference, making it particularly suitable for sectors like aviation, defense, and networking.

The funding will enable Akhetonics to deliver its first-generation all-optical digital processor hardware to pilot customers, with plans to release its first commercial product by mid-2025.

The company aims to demonstrate a full prototype of its processor by 2026, setting the stage for the launch of its first product.

Akhetonics is focused on creating all-optical chips that are compatible with existing digital workloads, enhancing performance in real-time applications such as networking, avionics, and space.

The startup's innovative approach to chip architecture could significantly reduce the number of required optical transistors and lower overall development costs.

Akhetonics' diverse supply chain allows for the potential local production of its chips, providing high-performance computing solutions to companies.

As photonics technology is expected to improve speed and energy efficiency in computing, it is increasingly linked to geopolitical factors like chip sovereignty.