1. A programmable integrated circuit (IC) comprising a single body of semiconductor, the IC comprising: at least one optical transducer as an integral part of the programmable integrated circuit on the same body of semiconductor, the optical transducer being operable to receive an optical input indicative of programming instructions; and at least one storage element communicatively coupled to the optical transducer and being operable to store thereon the programming instructions or an adaptation thereof, wherein the programming instructions received via the optical input are configured to direct the operation of the IC.