The companies claim that they can already produce 33.4 GB per layer versus 25 GB that is used today

Using software, the two companies have delivered  a third more space on a Blu-ray disc than existing technology. According to Blu-ray engineers, a new process known as i-MLSE (Maximum Likelihood Sequence Estimation) has been develeoped that measures the optical quality when reading and writing discs. This allows Blu-ray burners and readers work at up to a higher limit.

According to Electronista, unlike some advanced Blu-ray developments, the new approach is primarily dependent on software and wouldn't need new lasers or settings to record the extra capacity, according to Tech-On. Some companies may need to upgrade the processing hardware inside their drives as the advanced correction needs extra performance to be handled in real time.

Sony is particularly hopeful that i-MLSE becomes a widespread standard and is likely to propose it to the Blu-ray Disc Association as part of the spec. The move would give Association members like Apple, Dell, LG and Samsung a new option for data backups and longer-running movies.