Seagate Releases The First USB-Powered Desktop Hard Drive, Innov8

by Adam Armstrong March 30, 2016

written by Adam Armstrong March 30, 2016

Today Seagate Technology announced the launch of the world’s first USB-powered external desktop hard drive, the Seagate Innov8. Innov8 is a high capacity drive at 8TB, and uses Seagate’s new Ignition Boost Technology in order to allow it to be powered through a USB cable with no need of an independent power source. This high capacity, USB-powered drive is all contained in a beautifully designed outer casing.

Desktop hard drives are still widely sold and used by consumers, from storing computer backups to business files to multimedia that needs to be saved but not taking up computer space. Most users that have some sort of external storage that needs to be plugged in taking up outlets in a world where more and more things need to be plugged in (at least for recharging). USB 3.1 technology is changing the game in separate power supplies. Apple was the first to really jump on this with their new MacBook they release last year. Through one port they were able to satisfy all of the connectivity for their device. Seagate is looking for the same ability in its desktop hard drive using its Ignition Boost Technology. Seagate likens their new technology to a car battery kick starting an engine. And when combined with USB 3.1, there is no need for an external power supply.

USB-C not only has the benefit of new technology allowing for features such as powering the device, it is also reversible. This means users can plug it in correctly every time, something many consumers share a frustration with (USB’s are typically plugged in with the USB symbol facing up and the seam facing down). Also the drive comes with a capacity of 8TB which equates to two million songs, four million photos, and 800 HD movies, which should be more than enough for the majority of consumers. Innov8 comes with Seagate Dashboard software allowing users to schedule backups and it comes with 200GB of Microsoft OneDrive cloud storage and Lyve software compatibility.

External desktop hard drives aren’t known for their design, with the exception of LaCie Porsche Design. Seagate wanted to make a device that was not only functional but nice to look at as well as it will be out on the desk where everyone can plainly see it. Seagate worked with Huge-Design (they also work with GoPro, HP, and Nike) for the look of the Innov8 and it paid off as the Innov8 won this year’s Red Dot Design award.

Innov8 specifications: