DNA ‘cassette tape’ research hints at petabyte-scale cartridges and multi-century lifespan on paper — petabytes-per-meter density possible, but today it writes at kilobytes per hour

Researchers from SUSTech and Shanghai Jiao Tong University have created a DNA cassette tape drive that combines DNA storage with a physical tape-based medium, aiming for petabytes-per-meter density and multi-century lifespan. The system currently writes at kilobytes per hour, with a capacity of over half a terabyte per kilometer. While the prototype shows promise in durability and potential data storage, the slow read-write speeds hinder practical application. The DNA tape is encased in a protective shell for longevity, with estimated shelf life of over 300 years at room temperature. Despite challenges in scaling for commercial use, the project highlights the need for new data storage solutions beyond semiconductor-based memory.