Quantum Computing Bottleneck: Limitations of Cat Qubits

Recent research reveals significant limitations in quantum computing systems based on cat qubits. While exhibiting excellent performance in phase-flip error correction, these systems are highly vulnerable to bit-flip errors. A single bit-flip in any cat qubit directly causes a logical bit-flip error. Furthermore, the transmon qubits used for error correction are susceptible to both bit and phase flips, further hindering performance. Although some companies aim to reduce the number of required error-correction qubits by improving hardware qubits, this research indicates a substantial gap between current hardware capabilities and complex quantum computation. Breakthrough hardware advancements are necessary to realize the technology's potential.