Researchers have developed VortexChat, an AI system that can autonomously design complex integrated photonics devices from natural language specifications. The system uses a large language model to iteratively decompose design objectives and update strategies based on feedback with minimal human intervention. This closed-loop architecture enables the system to generate devices that meet all predefined performance thresholds without any human input. An experimental demonstration of VortexChat's capabilities resulted in the fabrication of a broadband terahertz perfect vortex beam multiplexer, which showed high-efficiency operation and low inter-channel crosstalk. --- Why it matters: This work matters because it demonstrates the potential for AI to automate complex design tasks in integrated photonics, which could lead to significant improvements in device performance and efficiency. Engineers working on photonic systems will be interested in VortexChat's ability to generate designs that meet strict performance thresholds without human intervention. Source: https://arxiv.org/abs/2608.20688