"Electrons running over network cables won’t cut it. Intel has been working on silicon photonics over 16 years. We are the first to light up silicon.” She further stated: "We see a future where silicon photonics optical input-output is everywhere in the data center."

Still they need an external ("hybrid") laser – 'nuff said.

"The Intel PSM4 silicon photonics module can deliver 100 gigabits per second across two kilometers, making it easier to share data at high speeds across the “spine” of a data center."

If Intel is at the "spine" of the data center, POET targets the "cells", i.e. the very many very short distance connects within a rack or between neighboring racks. Why does Intel not address these? Because their solution won't pay on short distances. POET's will.