The current data revolution has, in part, been enabled by decades of research into magnetism and spin phenomena. For example, milestones such as the observation of giant magnetoresistance, and the resulting development of the spin-valve read head, continue to motivate device research. However, the ever-growing need for higher data processing speeds and larger data storage capabilities has caused a significant increase in energy consumption and environmental concerns. Ongoing research and development in spintronics should therefore reduce energy consumption while increasing information processing capabilities. Here, we provide an overview of the current status of research and technology developments in data storage and spin-mediated energy harvesting in relation to energy-efficient technologies. We give our perspective on the advantages and outstanding issues for various data-storage concepts, and energy conversion mechanisms enabled by spin.

数十年来对磁性和自旋现象的研究促成了当前的数据革命。例如，诸如观察巨磁电阻之类的里程碑以及自旋阀读取头的最终发展，继续激励着设备研究。但是，对更高数据处理速度和更大数据存储能力的不断增长的需求已导致能耗和环境问题的显着增加。因此，正在进行的自旋电子学研究和开发应在提高信息处理能力的同时减少能耗。在此，我们概述了与节能技术相关的数据存储和自旋介导的能量收集方面的研究和技术发展的当前状态。