Menu Close

Summary*

Lightmatter, founded in 2017 and based in Boston, Massachusetts, is a pioneering company in the field of photonic computing. The company develops light-powered chips designed to significantly accelerate artificial intelligence-driven computations while reducing energy consumption. Lightmatter's innovative technology combines integrated optical components with traditional CMOS processes to create efficient processors that excel in critical operations for neural networks.

The company has made significant strides in the AI hardware market, offering a suite of products including Envise, Idiom, and Passage. These solutions provide a full stack of hardware and software to harness the benefits of photonic compute and interconnect technologies. Lightmatter claims its technology delivers performance five times faster than an Nvidia A100 unit when running large transformer models, while consuming only 15% of the energy.

Lightmatter has attracted substantial investor interest, raising a total of $421.28 million across multiple funding rounds. Its most recent Series C-2 round in December 2023 raised $155 million, valuing the company at $1.2 billion. Notable investors include Google Ventures, Viking Global Investors, and Fidelity Management & Research.

While there are no confirmed reports or official announcements regarding Lightmatter's IPO plans, the company's rapid growth, significant funding, and innovative technology in the burgeoning AI hardware market have naturally led to speculation about its future. However, it's important to note that any discussions about a potential IPO remain in the realm of market rumors at this time.

Factors that could influence Lightmatter's future decisions include the company's market traction, product development progress, and the overall state of the AI hardware market. As of July 2024, CEO Nick Harris stated that Lightmatter has "incredible market traction" and its products will soon be deployed in some of the world's largest data centers. The company is also reportedly close to achieving self-sustainability, which could be a significant milestone in its growth trajectory.

Investors interested in the AI hardware sector and potential future opportunities in Lightmatter should continue to monitor the company's progress and any official announcements regarding its plans.

How to invest in Lightmatter

While Lightmatter's IPO prospects remain uncertain, investors eager to gain exposure to innovative companies in the photonic computing space don't have to wait. At Linqto, we offer members access to interests in promising pre-IPO private companies, including potential leaders in cutting-edge technologies. Our platform allows you to diversify your portfolio with lower minimum investments, potentially benefiting from the growth of emerging industry pioneers like Lightmatter before they go public.

*These comments should not be interpreted to mean that the company is formally pursuing or foregoing an IPO. The information provided above is based on current online discussions and is not intended as investment advice. Linqto does not endorse or guarantee the accuracy of this information, and we strongly recommend conducting your own research or consulting with a professional advisor before making any investment decisions. Linqto cannot be held liable for any investment outcomes resulting from the use of this information.