Linear optical amplifier using coupled waveguide induced feedback

Systems and methods for extending a linear range of a semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA). A feedback layer is included in an SOA. The optical mode of the SOA is distributed between the feedback layer and the active region. As output optical power increases, the mode confinement of the active region increases and the mode is drawn from the feedback layer into the active region. The increase in the mode confinement offsets a loss of material gain such that the linear range of the SOA is extended. In one embodiment, the modal gain increases an higher output optical powers.