Chunghwa Telecom Co. and NTT Corp. established the world’s first international photonic network connection, linking Taipei and Tokyo in a push to develop next-generation telecommunications infrastructure.
The new optical network, demonstrated at NTT’s research forum, enables ultra-low latency transmission for virtual reality applications between the two countries. The system uses cloud rendering to reduce the processing load on user devices while minimizing motion sickness issues common in VR experiences.
The partnership builds on a memorandum of understanding signed in October 2023 to develop Innovative Optical and Wireless Network technology. Both companies aim to leverage the system for disaster recovery and remote media production applications.
Chih-Hsiung Huang, Chunghwa’s chief technology officer, indicated the network will support distributed cross-cloud computing and help advance energy conservation efforts. NTT’s technology chief Katsuhiko Kawazoe highlighted the system’s potential for flexible resource allocation.
The project represents part of a broader industry initiative through the IOWN Global Forum, where NTT serves as a board member. Chunghwa Telecom participates in several international telecom standards bodies, including the Next Generation Mobile Networks Alliance.
The companies did not disclose the investment amount or specific performance metrics for the new network connection.
