Stackable storage: A hologram is produced by two beams of light that interfere with each other. In GE’s prototype data storage system, the beams enter a disc from opposite sides. Credit: Courtesy of General Electric

A conventional DVD stores data only on its surface. But holographic storage encodes data as three-­dimensional patterns embedded inside a disc, vastly expanding its storage capacity. A long-awaited holographic drive from InPhase of Longmont, CO, is due out late this year; geared to Hollywood studios and large archives, it will cost $18,000. But a few companies, such as General Electric and Sony, are working on holographic storage systems that could be more compatible with existing technologies.

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