Listen "S3 Ep85: The future of all-optical computing with Michael Kissner, Founder & CEO of Akhetonics"
Episode Synopsis
This week on Tech Can’t Save Us, Paul is joined by Michael Kissner, Founder & CEO of Akhetonics, the company developing the world’s first all-optical general-purpose processor.
They discuss how optical computing could transform AI, networking, avionics, and space applications by processing data with light instead of electricity. Michael explains why now is the right time for all-optical processors, how Akhetonics is challenging assumptions about hardware design, and why their fully optical approach stands out from hybrid solutions.
Michael also shares his unconventional journey from the German Armed Forces to leading one of Europe’s most exciting deep-tech startups. He talks about the lessons he’s taken from military operations and cybersecurity research, and how they’ve shaped Akhetonics’ approach to problem-solving, leadership, and scaling.
Find out more about Akhetonics here: https://www.akhetonics.com/
Follow Michael Kissner here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kissner-968855116/?locale=en_US
They discuss how optical computing could transform AI, networking, avionics, and space applications by processing data with light instead of electricity. Michael explains why now is the right time for all-optical processors, how Akhetonics is challenging assumptions about hardware design, and why their fully optical approach stands out from hybrid solutions.
Michael also shares his unconventional journey from the German Armed Forces to leading one of Europe’s most exciting deep-tech startups. He talks about the lessons he’s taken from military operations and cybersecurity research, and how they’ve shaped Akhetonics’ approach to problem-solving, leadership, and scaling.
Find out more about Akhetonics here: https://www.akhetonics.com/
Follow Michael Kissner here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-kissner-968855116/?locale=en_US
More episodes of the podcast Tech Can't Save Us
S4 Ep13: Reimagining groceries for the everyday shopper, with Andy Ellwood, Founder & CEO of Stretch
11/12/2025
S4 Ep12: Rethinking SME Finance with Dr. Serge Santos, Founder & CEO of Funding Alternative Group
04/12/2025
S4 Ep9: Global bill payments through one integration with Rupert Shaw, Founder & CEO of BILRS
19/11/2025
ZARZA We are Zarza, the prestigious firm behind major projects in information technology.