What was a key feature of the first hard drives?

The first hard drives indeed utilized heads that fly over the disk surface, which was a significant advancement in data storage technology. This design allowed for faster access speeds compared to older storage methods. The heads float just microns above the disk platter, enabling the read and write of information without making direct contact with the surface, which is crucial for minimizing wear and increasing the lifespan of the disk.

In the context of other options, while magnetic tape was an earlier form of data storage, it is not characteristic of hard drives, as they rely on spinning magnetic disks rather than tape. The assertion that early hard drives could only store one program at a time is inaccurate, as they were designed to access multiple files and programs. Similarly, the statement regarding physical contact is misleading since the flying heads are designed to avoid contact with the disk surface. This design is what has allowed hard drives to maintain performance levels while reducing damage from wear over time.