Vodafone Teams Up With Scientists for New Light-Powered Chip That Beam Stronger Signals

Ever wondered how your phone magically connects you to the world, even when you're on a moving train or deep inside a shopping mall? It’s all thanks to a complex dance of invisible waves, antennas, and a bit of tech wizardry. But now, Vodafone and scientists at the University of Málaga are taking that magic to the next level—by swapping electricity for light.

Vodafone has recently announced that it is developing an advanced speed-boosting computer chip design that can direct a mobile signal straight to a user’s smartphone using light, in collaboration with the Photonics and Radiofrequency Research Lab - part of the Research Institute of Telecommunications at the University of Málaga (TELMA). 

How Mobile Signals Work Today

Right now, your phone talks to the world using radio waves. When you make a call or stream a video, your phone sends signals to the nearest cell tower, which is part of a vast network of base stations. These towers use electronic chips to process and direct your signal, bouncing it from one tower to another until it reaches its destination.

To make this work smoothly, especially in crowded areas, mobile networks use a technique called beamforming. Think of it like a spotlight that focuses the signal toward your phone instead of blasting it in all directions. This helps reduce interference and improves speed—but it still relies on electricity and traditional hardware.

Enter the Light: Vodafone’s Photonic Leap

Now imagine replacing those electronic chips with ones that use light instead of electricity. That’s exactly what Vodafone and the University of Málaga are doing with their new photonic computer chips.

Vodafone These chips use a technique called optical beamforming, which harnesses the precision of light to steer mobile signals directly to your device. It’s like upgrading from a flashlight to a laser pointer—more focused, more efficient, and far less wasteful.

Two types of chips are in development:

• A passive chip for early testing.
• An active chip that could eventually replace the beamforming tech in today’s radio units, controlling up to 32 antennas on a single mast.

Why It Matters

Representative Image

This light-based approach brings some serious perks:

• Stronger, more stable signals, even in packed stadiums or busy train stations.
• Lower energy use, which is great for both the planet and your phone’s battery.
• Less interference, meaning fewer dropped calls and smoother streaming.

And it’s not just about better phone calls. This tech could power future 5G-Advanced and 6G networks, support autonomous vehicles, and even improve satellite communications.

Backed by the European Commission’s IPCEI program and Spain’s Ministry of Industry and Tourism, the project is still in its early stages. But Vodafone plans to release a blueprint for these chips within two years—a big step toward making light-powered mobile networks a reality.