Lightmatter, a photonics startup, has introduced its latest optical engine, capable of halving fiber consumption in contemporary datacenters without relying on co-packaged optics. The Passage L20, unveiled ahead of OFC, optimizes fiber usage in high-performance switches and GPUs through near-package integration, distinguishing itself from Nvidia and Broadcom’s recent innovations. CEO Nick Harris highlights growing interest in these near-package optic (NPO) solutions, though this approach only slightly diverges from traditional pluggables. NPO maintains flexibility by avoiding the permanent attachment that co-packaged optics necessitate, minimizing risk and maintaining efficiency. Lightmatter’s L20, positioned as an interim solution before the expected 2028 shift to more comprehensive CPO systems, promises reduced power consumption and increased efficiency with its bidirectional fiber technique. The Passage L20 will sample late in 2026, as the company begins to cater to growing NPO demand. The introduction of vClick further aids integration with advanced packaging, underscoring Lightmatter’s commitment to innovation in photonics technology.