Microsoft’s data centers also rely on HDDs.
This results in the loss of valuable metals like neodymium, aluminum, and stainless steel.
Microsoft aims to change that with this new technique.
The idea first emerged from a 2022 Microsoft hackathon focused on sustainable disk disposal.
The process, as demonstrated by Microsoft in the video below, is fascinating to watch.
Robots use computer vision to map out components and remove every screw with precision.
Microsoft isn’t just implementing this more eco-friendly method within its own operations.
The company is taking a leadership role by collaborating with drive manufacturers and governments worldwide.
Of course, using advanced robotics for disk dismantling isn’t a novel concept.
Like Microsoft’s implementation, this process isolates rare-earth magnets as well.
