Lucent Technologies has unveiled an optical networking system that transmits voice, data or video signals through the air. The WaveStar OpticAir uses IR lasers, amplifiers and receivers placed on rooftops or office windows to transmit voice, data or video traffic.

The system is aimed at increasing network capacity in metropolitan areas where implementing fiber is costly and impractical, such as between high-rise buildings. The company says this fiber-free system enables transmission of 65 times more information than can be transferred through today's systems.