  We experimentally investigate inductively shunted transmon-type artificial
atoms as an alternative to address the challenges of low anharmonicity and the
need for strong charge dispersion in superconducting quantum systems. We
characterize several devices with varying geometries and parameters (Josephson
energies and capacitances), and find a good agreement with calculations. Our
approach allows us to retain the benefits of transmon qubit engineering and
fabrication technology and high coherence, while potentially increasing
anharmonicity. The approach offers an alternative platform for the development
of scalable multi-qubit systems in quantum computing.
