Fujitsu is taking a bold step to popularize open All-Photonics Networks (APNs) by inaugurating a specialized lab in Düsseldorf, Germany. Scheduled to run from November 2024 to March 2025, this lab is the first of its kind outside Japan. This initiative aims to promote the global spread of the Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN), including APN, digital twin technology, and a cognitive foundation.
The lab will offer hands-on experiences with open APN technology, highlighting its ease of operation and versatility. Network carriers, data center operators, and vendors will get the opportunity to test APN functionality and verify multi-vendor connectivity. This could be a game changer, especially considering the high capacity, low latency, and reduced power consumption that APNs promise.
Fujitsu has highlighted that “With the establishment of the Open APN Lab, the company will continue to promote the understanding of open APN technology and encourage the wider use of this low-power, high-capacity technology as part of its commitment to creating a sustainable society.”
The choice of Düsseldorf is strategic; its vibrant telecoms scene and proximity to Düsseldorf International Airport and key European cities make it an ideal location. The lab is conveniently located within the Fujitsu Technology Solutions building, which will facilitate practical trials and offer real-world APN use case insights.
This is part of a broader contract awarded by the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) to explore the feasibility of deploying APNs across Europe. Following this lab’s closure in March 2025, Fujitsu plans to extend its APN lab initiatives globally, including in North America.
This development is significant for enthusiasts of high-speed, low-latency networks. An open APN environment ensures interoperability among various vendor solutions, which can significantly drive innovation and adoption in telecommunications. However, the initial setup and broader collaboration between different companies could pose operational challenges.
