AMD acquired Enosemi, a silicon photonics startup, on Wednesday for an undisclosed amount. The acquisition aims to bolster AMD’s co-packaged optics innovation for AI systems, according to the company.
Silicon photonics utilizes photons for data transmission, which AMD views as a faster alternative to traditional electrical methods. In late 2024, AMD reportedly collaborated with Taiwanese startups on silicon photonics R&D.
Brian Amick, SVP of tech and engineering at AMD, stated in a blog post that the acquisition will scale the company’s ability to support and develop photonics and co-packaged optics solutions across next-generation AI systems. He added, “As AI models grow larger and more complex, the need for faster, more efficient data movement is accelerating.”
Enosemi, based in Silicon Valley, was founded in 2023 by Ari Novack and Matthew Streshinsky. The company produces photonic integrated circuits, including optical interconnects intended to integrate computing and networking components within data centers.
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Prior to being acquired, Enosemi raised $150,000 in venture capital, receiving backing from firms such as New Mexico Vintage Fund. According to PitchBook, the company employed 16 people as of May. Ari Novack’s LinkedIn profile indicates he is now a silicon design engineering fellow at AMD.
This acquisition follows AMD’s previous agreement to acquire ZT Systems. AMD is selling ZT Systems’ server-manufacturing business for $3 billion, an agreement reached earlier in May.
During an earnings call in February, CEO Lisa Su stated that AMD’s AI chip revenue reached $5 billion in 2024.
