Seagate has introduced a new 36TB Exos M datacenter hard disk drive, surpassing its own record and overshadowing competitors like Western Digital. This launch comes just a month after the unveiling of a 32TB model, solidifying Seagate’s lead in the market. The new drive boasts 10TB-per-platter technology, a first in the industry.
By utilizing its mature Mozaic 3+ platform, Seagate has delivered the largest capacity HDD currently available, meeting the demands of hyperscalers such as Microsoft and AWS. The company’s strategic focus on platter capacity – reaching 3.6TB per platter – sets it apart from rivals. Seagate’s shift towards HAMR technology in the 36TB model promises cost reductions and enhanced power efficiency.
Looking ahead, Seagate’s CEO hints at the imminent arrival of 60TB HDDs, marking a significant milestone in storage technology. While SSDs dominate performance metrics, the relentless pursuit of cheaper storage solutions keeps HDDs relevant, especially in the datacenter market. Dell also highlights the importance of high-capacity, cost-effective HDDs in supporting AI workloads and specialized use cases.
Although the 36TB HDD may not be commercially available in retail channels for some time due to enterprise demand, it underscores Seagate’s commitment to innovation and meeting the evolving needs of the market.