Abstract: A near-field laser and detector apparatus and method wherein both writing and reading of optical media can be carried out using the same laser operating in a single mode for both read and write operations. The single operational mode can be utilized with both edge emitting and surface emitting laser configurations, and allows readout via rear facet output power variation or by voltage variation across the laser. A small aperture laser is operated during read and write operations at a bias current which is higher than the threshold currents associated with feedback from high and low reflectivity regions of an optical medium. The bias current and laser structure provide a relatively high, continuous output power from the front emission facet of the laser to facilitate writing, while providing substantial fluctuation or change in output power from the rear emission facet to facilitate readout.