Researchers at Intel and the University of California, Santa Barbara are expected to announce the development of a chip that can transfer data using photons instead of wires. The chip is based on a technology that allows Intel to amplify lasers in silicon and is said to now use an Indium Phosphide-based laser, which can endure higher tempartures than initial test lasers.

According to media reports, the chip could at least double the bandwidth of today's fastest chips to 20 Gb/s and reach speeds up to 40 Gb/s.