Tape keeps kicking, 'breakthrough' 40TB native spec announced — LTO-10 tapes claim up to 100TB compressed data capacity, hold 2.2X more data than previous spec

The Linear Tape-Open (LTO) Ultrium Format companies have introduced the LTO-10 40TB cartridge standard, boasting a 2.2X increase in data capacity over the previous spec. This new tape format is driven by the increasing demand for data preservation in the AI era. The enhancements in LTO-10 are attributed to a new head design and advanced base film technology called Aramid, enabling higher density and smoother media. The roadmap for tape technology includes a potential 913TB capacity in the future, with the LTO-10 40TB cartridges set to ship in Q1 2026.