Parallels has unveiled the new version of Desktop for Mac, its software that enables Mac users to run OS X and Windows side-by-side, together with a new edition of the software to simplify the switch from PC to Mac.
Boasting more than 80 new and enhanced features, the fully 64-bit Parallels Desktop 6 focuses on improvements in productivity, performance and graphics: for instance. 3D graphics run nearly 40% better than before and boot time for Windows is 41% faster.
New features include virtual machine encryption to secure date, support for 5.1 Surround Sound, the ability to apply Mac-standard parental controls to Windows and an option to use Mac keyboard shortcuts when working in Windows.
It also includes anti-virus software and data protection and recovery tools for Windows, via Parallels SmartGuard and SafeMode, Kaspersky Internet Security 2011, Kaspersky Anti-Virus for Mac, Acronis True Image Home 2010 and Acronis Disk Director 2011 Home.
“Whether it’s for school, home, work or play, Parallels Desktop for Mac is the number one choice of customers worldwide,” says Serguei Beloussov, Parallels’ chief executive. “Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac delivers again on our proven track record of innovation with over 80 new and enhanced features that provides the fastest, simplest and most immersive Windows on Mac experience ever.”
Parallels has also announced the availability of Parallels Desktop 6 Switch to Mac Edition, which includes Parallels Desktop 6 plus new features specifically designed to make the move from PC to Mac smart and simple.
These include Personal Data Migration to automatically move programs, data and media — in Windows’ My Documents, My Pictures, My Videos and My Downloads folders — to the appropriate folders on your Mac and to move Internet Explorer, Firefox or Chrome settings and bookmarks.
“Parallels does a great job of making it even easier for people to switch to the Mac and allowing them to run Windows applications if they need to, side-by-side with their Mac applications and without rebooting,” said Ron Okamoto, Apple’s vice president of worldwide developer relations.
Parallels Desktop for Mac 6 costs £64.99 and Desktop 6 Switch to Mac Edition is £79.99 and both will be available from Tuesday, 14 September. Anyone who purchased Parallels Desktop 5 for Mac from an authorised reseller on or after 15 August 2010 is eligible for a free upgrade.
