Magnetic tape remains a trusted medium for large-scale data storage due to its stable read/write performance and ability to be physically isolated from networks—creating an “air gap” that significantly reduces the risk of data loss from cyber incidents. Consequently, magnetic tape is widely adopted by data centres and major IT companies for secure backup and archiving.
To advance this concept, Fujifilm has launched a new product, described as the LTO Ultrium 10 (40TB) Data Cartridge. This is a form of magnetic tape storage media with a maximum storage capacity of 40TB (100TB compressed) per cartridge, approximately 33 percent greater than the previous version. The device enables the secure and cost-effective storage of large amounts of data.
The objectives that the company’s researchers were set was to reconstruct data storage to enable the secure, cost-effective storage of massive data volumes while addressing the growing need for reliable data protection amid escalating cyber threats.
The LTO-10 (40TB) is an advanced iteration of the Ultrium 10 (30TB) Data Cartridge, which was launched in June 2025. By building on the success of LTO-10 (30TB), the new LTO-10 (40TB) cartridge incorporates Fujifilm’s proprietary “fine hybrid magnetic particles” to enhance areal recording density.
Higher operating temperature
Additionally, the data cartridge possesses a novel thin-layer technology with Aramid film reduces tape thickness, allowing a 30% increase in tape length per cartridge. This new 40TB cartridge is compatible with the same LTO-10 drive hardware as used for the 30 TB cartridge.
Furthermore, the LTO10 (40TB) has expanded its recommended operating temperature and humidity range compared to current models such as the LTO10 (30TB). The temperature range has been extended from 15°C–25°C to 15°C–35°C, and the humidity tolerance now supports up to 80% under conditions of 15°C–25°C.
This enhancement enables stable performance even in high-temperature and high-humidity environments, making it a versatile data storage media suitable for a wide variety of operational settings.
Cybersecurity
As ransomware and other cyberattacks increasingly threaten enterprises and organizations worldwide, safeguarding sensitive business data, customer information, and research results has become a top priority across industries.
The use of magnetic tape is also a key growth area for technology firms. The demand for LTO tape continues to grow, especially with the need for AI-ready archival capacity. 2024 shipments reached a record 176.5 exabytes— 15% increase year-over-year—highlighting the medium’s expanding role in data management.
The LTO-10 (40TB) will be available for shipping beginning January, 2026.
Specifications
- Product name： FUJIFILM LTO Ultrium 10 (40TB) Data Cartridge
- Release date: Starting from January, 2026
- Models, packaging formats and prices:
- Model Packaging format Price
- LTO FB UL-10 40.0T 5 cartridges x 4 Open
- LTO FB UL-10 40.0T LP20 20 cartridges x 1 Open
- LTO FB UL-10 40.0T ECO 20 cartridges x 1 Open
- See your Fujifilm Sales Representative for Pricing Details and Ordering.
“LTO-10” achieves a maximum recording capacity of 40TB (100TB Compressed).
