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'Quantum CD' could hold up to 1,000 times more data than today's optical discs

Live Science
Summary
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80% Informative

Scientists have proposed a new type of data storage device that harnesses the properties of quantum mechanics.

The ultra-high-density optical memory device would consist of numerous memory cells, each containing rare earth elements embedded within a solid material.

These elements emit photons, or particles of light, which are absorbed by nearby "quantum defects" These quantum defects could potentially store data for a useful period.