AWS Goes “Hollow Core” to Stretch Faster Networks for the AI Era

AWS is rolling out hollow-core fiber (HCF) in parts of its network backbone—air-filled optical cable that reduces how much glass slows light—so it can push higher bandwidth and much lower latency over longer distances. AWS says its HCF delivers around a 30% latency improvement versus standard fiber, and by engineering loss characteristics comparable to single-mode fiber, it can keep strict latency targets while reaching nearly 50% farther. The result: AWS can place data-center buildings in a region farther apart without violating latency requirements—an increasingly important advantage as AI clusters and cloud regions keep scaling. AWS becomes the second hyperscaler after Microsoft to publicly highlight HCF use, while telecoms and colocation providers continue trials amid supply challenges.

https://www.fierce-network.com/cloud/aws-using-hollow-core-fiber-go-distance