Story perspectives

Breakthrough Optical Fibres Boost Data Speed and Efficiency

9/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Researchers at the University of Southampton created hollow-core optical fibres that achieve 0.091 decibels per kilometre signal attenuation, a 35% improvement over standard fibres.
These fibres transmit data 45% faster than traditional glass fibres, potentially transforming telecommunications.
The design utilizes air as the core and employs anti-resonance for light guidance.
Microsoft is testing these fibres in real systems, ensuring compatibility with existing telecom infrastructure.
The team is working towards large-scale production to overcome mass manufacturing challenges.

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Story summary

Researchers at the University of Southampton created hollow-core optical fibres that achieve 0.091 decibels per kilometre signal attenuation, a 35% improvement over standard fibres.
These fibres transmit data 45% faster than traditional glass fibres, potentially transforming telecommunications.
The design utilizes air as the core and employs anti-resonance for light guidance.
Microsoft is testing these fibres in real systems, ensuring compatibility with existing telecom infrastructure.
The team is working towards large-scale production to overcome mass manufacturing challenges.