Parallels Desktop 27: Focus on Apple Silicon

Parallels has released the latest version of its virtualization software, Parallels Desktop 27. A notable difference from previous versions is the complete departure from Intel Macs. The software is now exclusively optimized for Macs with Apple Silicon, representing a significant change in product strategy.

The decision to no longer support Intel Macs comes at a time when Apple is increasingly highlighting its own processors. Parallels Desktop 27 takes advantage of the Apple Silicon architecture to provide improved performance and efficiency. This enables seamless integration and use of virtual machines on the latest Mac models.

New Features and Improvements

One of the standout innovations in Parallels Desktop 27 is the new OpenGL 4.3 driver, which is based on Metal. This technology promises improved graphics performance and optimized rendering capabilities for applications running on virtual machines. The use of Metal, Apple's own graphics API, allows developers to utilize hardware resources more efficiently.

In addition to the graphics improvement, Parallels Desktop 27 also offers matrix acceleration for virtual machines. This feature aims to enhance computing power for complex calculations and graphics-intensive applications. The matrix acceleration could be particularly interesting for developers and businesses that rely on powerful virtual environments.

Although Parallels Desktop 27 has discontinued support for Intel Macs, existing x86_64 systems can still be emulated. However, users should expect significant performance losses. This limitation could pose a challenge for some users who depend on older software or specific applications.

Market Development and User Reactions

Parallels' decision to focus exclusively on Apple Silicon reflects a broader trend in the software industry that centers on the increasing prevalence of ARM-based processors. Many software developers are adapting their products to take advantage of the new architecture. This could lead to increased acceptance of Apple Silicon in professional environments in the long run.

User reactions to the new version are mixed. While many appreciate the enhanced features and optimized performance, there are also concerns regarding the departure from Intel Macs. Some users who rely on older hardware may feel compelled to upgrade their systems or seek alternative solutions.

Parallels Desktop 27 is now available and targets users who want to leverage the latest technologies from Apple. The software offers a variety of features specifically designed for the Apple Silicon architecture, making it potentially of great interest to many users.