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WD introduces world's first 20 TB hard drive integrating iNAND UFS (EFD) memory to enhance performance, reliability, and capacity. Dubbed OptiNAND, WD utilizes iNAND to store the drive's metadata.Following WD's OptiNAND architecture, this 20 TB drive features 9 platters utilizing ePMR straight write technology coupled with a 3-state head actuator, allowing precise head positioning. It also incorporates iNAND UFS chip utilizing 3D TLC NAND technology. The exact capacity remains undisclosed. WD also employs a custom SoC to control drive operations and facilitate communication between the HDD and EFD.
Western Digital announces the implementation of OptiNAND technology across its upcoming HDD generations. With OptiNAND, WD anticipates a potential capacity increase of up to 50 TB by the latter half of this decade. While WD has not disclosed how the integration of iNAND EFD memory technology will impact HDD pricing, it's certain that advancements enhancing HDD performance through hardware, such as controllers and NAND chips, will initially reflect in higher prices.Source: Tom's Hardware
