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Leeds-based startup Optalysys has raised £23 million to accelerate the rollout of its light-powered computer chips, enhancing the UK's position in the AI hardware race. The funding, led by Northern Gritstone and supported by the UK government's National Security Strategic Investment Fund, will enable Optalysys to scale its photonic computing technology and expand into the United States.

The company develops chips that process data using light, significantly reducing energy consumption and heat generation while ensuring data security. Manufacturing is outsourced to specialist foundries, including partnerships in Belgium, Singapore, and a planned site in New York.

Optalysys aims to target secure AI computing and data centers, offering a more energy-efficient alternative to traditional semiconductor technologies. The company, currently pre-revenue, launched its first commercial product last year and anticipates shipping to customers shortly.