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That new transistor is really a modulator. Light is output into two channels. Using a quantum physics concept, light in one channel is slowed by applying a charge. Light from both channels is combined. If in phase, then light is output. If not in phase, then outputs from two channels cancel - light is not output. Intel may use this transistor to communicate data in buses throughout a microprocessor.
Very few actually reported this transistor. AT&T (or was it Lucent by then) had once developed a light switch where a semiconductor micromachine turned a mirror. Took long to swtich on and off. Could be used to change data paths among different fiber optics. And then AT&T quashed it. At least Intel's idea shows promise. And is located where innovators are appreciated as assets - not as expenses.
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