Photonics Integrated Circuits: Enabling the Next Era of High-Speed, Energy-Efficient Computing

As the limits of traditional electronic integrated circuits become increasingly apparent in the face of exponential data growth and power demands, photonic integrated circuits (PICs) have emerged as a transformative technology to address the challenges of speed, bandwidth, and energy efficiency. In this keynote, we explore the evolution, current breakthroughs, and future directions of PICs in both data communication and computing applications. We delve into the integration of photonic elements with existing CMOS platforms, discuss recent advances in silicon photonics, and highlight how heterogeneous integration is enabling compact, scalable, and cost-effective PIC solutions. The talk also addresses key design challenges such as thermal management, coupling efficiency, and standardization, while emphasizing the critical role of advanced design automation and simulation tools. Looking ahead, we envision a future where photonic and electronic co-design becomes a cornerstone of next-generation IC systems, propelling innovations in AI, quantum computing, and beyond. This session aims to inspire new approaches and collaborations at the intersection of photonics and electronics, laying the groundwork for the IC industry's next leap forward.