Parallels Desktop 20.2: Game-Changer for Apple Silicon Users with x86 Emulation

For Mac aficionados who also need to dip their digital toes into Windows or Linux, Parallels Desktop has long been the go-to choice for virtual machines (VMs). The latest major update, version 20.2, brings features users have been clamoring for, particularly in the Apple Silicon universe. This new update lets Apple Silicon hardware (think M-series chips) run x86-based virtual machines, including Windows 11 and various Linux distributions.
Here's everything you need to know about this groundbreaking update and what it means for you.

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The Big Deal: x86 Virtualization on Apple Silicon​

For the uninitiated, Apple’s transition from Intel-based processors to its ARM-based M-series chips (Apple Silicon) has drastically improved the performance and efficiency of Mac computers. However, this has created complications for users who need to run software built for x86-based systems (Intel/AMD architectures). Historically, this limitation has made it challenging to run certain applications and operating systems natively.
Parallels Desktop 20.2 bridges this gap with its early technology preview of 64-bit x86 emulation. This is a monumental development in the virtualization world because it allows ARM-based devices to emulate Intel architecture within a VM, enabling key use cases like:

• Running full-fledged Windows 10 and Windows 11 environments.
• Testing and developing 32-bit Windows apps in a controlled, native-like environment.
• Hosting Linux virtual machines (VMs) without relying on workarounds like macOS’s built-in Rosetta 2.

What is x86 emulation?
To fully appreciate what Parallels has achieved, you need to understand emulation. x86 refers to the instruction set most commonly used by Intel and AMD processors. Emulating x86 on Apple Silicon means creating a software layer that mimics this instruction set. This allows ARM-powered Macs to run operating systems and apps previously reserved for Intel-based systems. Emulation typically incurs a performance penalty, but Parallels has optimized this using a proprietary engine to maximize compatibility and speed.

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Limitations of the Tech Preview​

Great as it sounds, the x86 emulation in Parallels 20.2 is still a tech preview, meaning some features are rough around the edges:

1. Performance Variability: Depending on the host hardware (whether you're rocking an M1, M2, or the latest M3 chip), performance could be slower compared to native applications.
2. 64-Bit Support Only: Oddly, while the emulation is primarily 64-bit, you can still run 32-bit Windows apps. This could confuse some users expecting full 32-bit VM compatibility.
3. No USB Device Support: Plug in a USB device intending to use it in your VM? Not happening right now. This could be a limitation for developers or power users with specialized needs.
4. Parallels Hypervisor Incompatibility: You’ll need to rely on Apple's native virtualization stack, as Parallels Hypervisor is off the table for these emulated VMs.

Regardless of these drawbacks, early adopters and testers can get excited about the potential here. Apple Silicon users no longer have to sacrifice compatibility or carry a secondary Intel machine for native x86 workflows.

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SSO and IT-Friendly Enhancements​

Shifting focus to enterprise users, Parallels Desktop 20.2 includes features designed with IT teams and corporate deployments in mind:

• Single Sign-On (SSO): Companies utilizing Microsoft Entra ID or Okta for identity management will find this integration handy. Employees can activate Parallels by logging in with their work credentials, simplifying onboarding.
• Parallels Management Portal Enhancements: IT admins can push tailored configurations to Macs, ensuring consistency across managed devices.
• Streamlined Licensing: Forget juggling custom license keys; corporate users can now manage licenses through their organization’s identity provider.

If you’re an IT admin dealing with cross-platform realities, these features make Parallels an easier sell for deploying mixed environments.

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Apple Intelligence Meets Windows Apps​

One of Parallels’ standout features since version 20.1 has been making Apple Intelligence Writing Tools like grammar and spellcheck accessible within Windows environments. With 20.2, this has been further refined. Now, you can use these tools more seamlessly in Microsoft apps, such as PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook, thanks to a context menu integration, ensuring increased accessibility and ease of use.

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Why This is a Game Changer​

Let’s face it: Apple Silicon is the future for Mac users. Until now, the lack of robust x86 application support had been holding some users back. With Parallels Desktop 20.2, Apple Silicon devices (like the MacBook Air, Mac Mini, and Mac Studio) can begin to fulfill the classic “one-machine-for-everything” promise. Here’s why this matters:

1. Enterprise Compatibility: Many IT environments rely on Windows-exclusive apps. The ability to emulate x86 Windows on Apple Silicon bridges that gap, meaning businesses can more readily adopt Mac hardware without sacrificing software access.
2. Developer-Ready: Need to test an application on multiple platforms? Parallels empowers developers by turning a single device into a multi-platform powerhouse.
3. Linux Options Expand: Linux enthusiasts can experiment beyond Rosetta for a closer-to-native experience in emulated VMs.

Think of this as a “have your cake and eat it too” situation for professionals managing disparate workloads.

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What Lies Ahead?​

While the inclusion of x86 emulation today is impressive, there’s plenty of room for improvement. Performance optimizations, expanded compatibility with 32-bit systems, and peripheral support (like USB devices) would make this a dream tool. The success of Parallels 20.2 could also push Microsoft and Linux distributions to lean even further into ARM compatibility, possibly reducing the need for emulation entirely.
For now, though, Parallels Desktop 20.2 is a must-try update for Apple Silicon users eyeing x86 virtualization. Whether you’re a pro developer, IT admin, or experimental tinkerer, the doors just opened to a world of possibilities—and Windows 11 is holding the keys.
What do you think about this major update? Share your thoughts below, and let’s geek out about the future of cross-platform computing!

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Source: AppleInsider Parallels 20.2 trials x86 VMs on Apple Silicon, bringing Linux & Windows 11 support