Summary
- Quantum computing basics: Quantum computers use qubits, which can store zeros and ones simultaneously, to perform multiple calculations at once. This makes them faster and more powerful than classical computers for complex problems.
- Quantum computing progress: Quantum computers have achieved a major breakthrough in 2019, when Google’s quantum computer solved a problem in 200 seconds that would have taken a classical computer 10,000 years. Quantum computers are expected to become more advanced and accessible in the next few years.
- Quantum computing capabilities: Quantum computers have four fundamental capabilities that differentiate them from classical computers: quantum simulation, optimization and search, quantum AI, and prime factorization. These capabilities can be applied to various fields and industries, such as pharmaceuticals, chemicals, automotive, and finance.
- Quantum computing challenges: Quantum computers face some technical challenges, such as qubit volatility, scalability, and accuracy. Quantum computers also pose some security risks, as they can break classical encryption protocols. Quantum cryptography is being developed to address this issue.
- Quantum computing talent: Quantum computing has a large talent gap, as there are more job openings than qualified candidates. Businesses need to define their talent needs, invest in translators, create diverse talent pipelines, build technology literacy, and develop talent strategies to close the gap.
- Quantum computing resources: The document provides a list of articles and reports from McKinsey that explore quantum computing in more depth and detail.