Microsoft is focusing on glass data storage for critical archives that must survive hardware upgrades, format obsolescence, and the passage of centuries. Its Project Silica research indicates that data, inscribed with ultrafast lasers inside silica glass plates, can remain intact for at least 10,000 years under normal conditions.
The process involves writing data as 3D voxels inside the glass. Retrieval requires specialized equipment to image the layers and AI-powered software to decode the patterns back into usable information. This technology is designed for institutional archives, not personal storage.
While promising for reducing the need for frequent data migrations, challenges remain. The system must improve write speeds and scale manufacturing. Long-term accessibility also depends on preserving the specifications and decoding methods for future generations.
For now, Project Silica represents a significant shift in archival thinking, though practical, affordable deployment is still in development.