ERNIE, our Electronic Random Number Indicator Equipment, is the power behind Premium Bonds. Generating the numbers for 719 million tax-free prizes worth approximately £33 billion since June 1957.
The next generation
In 2019, the power behind Premium Bonds was upgraded to the latest generation - ERNIE 5. Unlike previous versions which used thermal noise to produce random numbers, ERNIE 5 is powered by quantum technology, which uses light. This new technology allows ERNIE to produce enough random numbers for a monthly prize draw in around 20 minutes - that's over 20 times faster than its thermal predecessor.
The clever bit
Using light, ERNIE 5 generates random numbers that are matched against eligible Bond numbers to determine the lucky winners. And because it’s random, every Bond number, whether it has 8, 9, 10 or 11 digits, has a separate and equal chance of winning a prize.
Agents Million
Our Agents Million have the important task of delivering the winning news in person to the two monthly jackpot winners. Since the first Premium Bonds millionaire in 1994, over 500 new millionaires have been paid a visit.
Proud heritage
A Bletchley Park code breaker invented the first ERNIE in 1956. Following this, Harold Macmillan announced the launch of Premium Bonds on Budget Day, 17 April 1956, offering everyone an alternative way to save. There have been five generations of ERNIE and with continuous advances in technology, each has become faster and more powerful.
Premium Bonds today
There are now more ways than ever to check, manage and Buy Premium Bonds. Anyone can see if they have won a prize by using our online prize checker or choose from our mobile or voice apps. And of course you can buy more Bonds whenever you like, 24 hours a day.
