IBM will introduce a hard disk with 73 gigabytes of data storage space - the largest capacity drive ever developed.

The UltraStar 72ZX has the ability to store 7 billion bits of data in a square inch, IBM said. The 73GB drive, aimed at high-end computing markets, is also said to have set a record for the fastest response time to search out new data, at just 4.9 milliseconds.

IBM reportedly will release the disk next year and thus steal away the capacity crown from rival Seagate, which has been selling a 50GB drive since last fall.

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