Researchers in Japan have shattered the internet speed record, achieving a staggering 1.02 petabits per second (Pbps).This breakthrough means the entire Netflix library could theoretically be downloaded in less than a second, a feat approximately 3.5 million times faster than the average US fixed broadband connection of 289 Mbps as of May 2025, according to Speedtest.
Fiber optics with 19 cores
The record was made possible by a novel optical fiber featuring 19 cores, all contained within a standard 0.125-millimeter diameter cable. This multi-core design allows for the transmission of 19 times more data than conventional single-core fibers,with minimal signal degradation due to uniform light conduction. For a transmission spanning 1,120 miles, a distance comparable to that between New York and Chicago, the signal required amplification 21 times.
This new benchmark substantially surpasses the previous year’s record of 50,250 gigabits per second (Gbps). While the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology (NICT) team had achieved similar speeds in 2023, it was over a much shorter distance. Advancements in signal amplification techniques and methods to reduce data loss were crucial in enabling this extended range.
Compatible with existing fiber optic cables
This technological leap is poised to address the escalating global demand for data, which is growing at an annual rate of approximately 50 percent, according to nielsen’s Law. The innovation is particularly significant for countries experiencing stagnation in fiber optic infrastructure progress, as the new cables are designed to integrate seamlessly with existing networks.
While the record awaits autonomous verification, it underscores the transformative potential of fiber optics in shaping the future of internet connectivity.
Further reading: These are the 10 most watched Netflix shows of all time
