Observed Signal · Oct 21, 2024 · Funding · Source: Tech.eu · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Positive
Oriole Networks Raises $22M for Energy-Efficient AI Photonics
Oriole Networks, a UCL spinout using light-based photonics to reduce the energy consumption of AI data centres, has raised an additional $22 million. The round was led by Plural, with existing investors UCL Technology Fund, XTX Ventures, Clean Growth Fund, and Dorilton Ventures reinvesting. Oriole's technology connects AI chips via optical networks, potentially enabling LLM training up to 100 times faster while using a fraction of the power. The company, founded in 2023, says the funds will accelerate team expansion and supplier engagement, aiming for early-stage products in customers' hands by 2025. CEO James Regan previously built EFFECT Photonics, and Ian Hogarth of Plural joins the board. Total funding this year reaches $35 million.
Funding for photonic AI infrastructure is relevant to the broader AI technology stack but has limited direct impact on AdTech/MarTech today.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Oriole Networks raised $22 million in a funding round led by Plural, with existing investors reinvesting.
- The company has raised $35 million total in 2024.
- Oriole Networks uses photonics technology to connect AI chips and train LLMs up to 100x faster with lower energy consumption.
- Oriole Networks was founded in 2023 out of University College London (UCL).
- The company plans to have early-stage products in customers' hands by 2025.
Ontology Mapping & Concepts
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
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