Amazon Web Services (AWS) has introduced Ocelot, its first-generation quantum computing chip, designed to significantly reduce the costs of quantum error correction by up to 90%. Developed at the AWS Center for Quantum Computing at the California Institute of Technology, Ocelot uses a scalable, hardware-efficient architecture to address one of the most critical challenges in quantum computing: error correction. The chip employs cat qubits, a type of qubit technology that intrinsically suppresses certain errors, simplifying the error correction process.
Quantum error correction is essential for building fault-tolerant quantum computers capable of solving complex problems beyond the reach of classical systems. Ocelot integrates 14 core components, including 5 data qubits (cat qubits), 5 buffer circuits for stabilization, and 4 error-detection qubits. The chip’s oscillators, made from a superconducting Tantalum thin film, are optimized for high performance, enabling reliable storage and manipulation of quantum information. AWS estimates that Ocelot’s architecture could reduce the resources required for error correction by 5-10 times compared to conventional approaches.
AWS scientists tested Ocelot by measuring its ability to store and retain quantum information, demonstrating its potential for scalability and performance. While still a prototype, it represents a significant step toward scalable, practical quantum computing. AWS plans to refine the technology further, focusing on improving fabrication processes and integrating new materials to enhance qubit performance.
Dr. David Shaw, Chief Analyst for Global Quantum Intelligence, commented, “The AWS architecture really breaks new ground: a truly hybrid design that uses transmons in new ways to unlock the potential of bosonic qubits. It also promises to be a fast architecture when successfully realised. Getting good transmon qubit lifetimes will be key in keeping Cat phase-flip errors under control and unlocking the path to the targeted gigaquop performance. As with other superconducting circuit based designs, thermal load on the dilution fridge is a challenge that looms large for scaling. “
For more details, visit a news release provided by AWS here. a blog post on Caltech’s website here, a technical blog posted on the Amazon Science website here, and the research paper published by Nature here.
February 27, 2025
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