Western Digital aims for over 100TB storage with new recording technologies

Western Digital is developing hard drives that can exceed 100TB using new technologies like Heat-Assisted Magnetic Recording (HAMR) and Heat Dot Magnetic Recording (HDMR). These advancements aim to improve data storage capacity and reliability over the next decade. The company plans to reach HDD capacities of 36TB-44TB by 2026 with HAMR technology. HDMR, expected to follow in the 2030s, will utilize nano-patterned media to enhance data placement and density, though it may be costly. In addition to HDDs, Western Digital is exploring long-term storage solutions like DNA and ceramics. The company is also investigating advanced computing models for AI and potential applications in medical technology.