There’s big news out in the world of tech for the Mac-loving Windows diehards. Parallels Desktop 20.2.0 is here, and it’s making headlines for delivering a monumental breakthrough: Windows 11 support for x86_64 (aka 64-bit) applications on Macs powered by Apple’s M-series chips. Let’s pause for a moment—that’s right, folks! This update potentially breaks down a wall that has separated the universes of those sleek macOS devices and the workhorse Windows OS. But is it all smooth sailing in virtual paradise? Let’s dive in.
For years, running a full-fat version of Windows on a Mac faced its fair share of obstacles. Apple’s transition to their custom-designed M-series Silicon chips only compounded the challenge. These chips, built on ARM architecture, don’t natively understand x86_64—it’s tech babble that boils down to, "The two architectures don’t speak the same language." Think of it like trying to run a PlayStation game disc on an Xbox. Just. Not. Happening.
Until now, solutions like Parallels made it possible to spin up a virtual Windows environment on Mac. However, there was one significant caveat—it was Windows for ARM only. While ARM is functional and fine for the growing library of ARM-optimized applications, it doesn’t give you the breadth or depth of compatibility that x86_64 provides. Translation: You couldn’t run all the legacy apps that the world has been using for decades. For hardcore Windows users, this felt like being handed a fabulous Ferrari… without the key.
But with the 20.2.0 update for Parallels Desktop, this barrier starts to crumble. Sure, it’s not a perfect solution yet (more on that below), but it’s a tantalizing glimpse of what's possible. Let’s dig into the juicy details.
Apple’s chips are famously energy-efficient and powerful, but emulating a whole x86 architecture still takes its toll. The slow performance is likely due to this need for dynamic translation, where every instruction from Windows gets reinterpreted step-by-step. It’s like using Google Translate for a live speech—it takes time and patience.
But with all its current restrictions, this update feels a bit like a concept car: It works, it’s cool to see in action… but it needs time before it’s ready for prime-time commercial use. Still, it signals an exciting future where dual-OS enthusiasts won’t have to make so many compromises.
For now, we tip our hats to Parallels for continuing to innovate in a problem space that frustrates so many users. And for those ready to dive into the deep end of beta testing, there’s never been a more thrilling time to be a Mac-and-Windows user.
What do you think? Would you try out the x86_64 support on Parallels with your M-series Mac? Or are the current limitations too steep for your needs? Drop your thoughts and experiences below!
Source: ITC.ua Windows 11 x86_64 support for Apple Macs with M chips is now available in Parallels Desktop
A Tale of Two Worlds Colliding
For years, running a full-fat version of Windows on a Mac faced its fair share of obstacles. Apple’s transition to their custom-designed M-series Silicon chips only compounded the challenge. These chips, built on ARM architecture, don’t natively understand x86_64—it’s tech babble that boils down to, "The two architectures don’t speak the same language." Think of it like trying to run a PlayStation game disc on an Xbox. Just. Not. Happening.Until now, solutions like Parallels made it possible to spin up a virtual Windows environment on Mac. However, there was one significant caveat—it was Windows for ARM only. While ARM is functional and fine for the growing library of ARM-optimized applications, it doesn’t give you the breadth or depth of compatibility that x86_64 provides. Translation: You couldn’t run all the legacy apps that the world has been using for decades. For hardcore Windows users, this felt like being handed a fabulous Ferrari… without the key.
But with the 20.2.0 update for Parallels Desktop, this barrier starts to crumble. Sure, it’s not a perfect solution yet (more on that below), but it’s a tantalizing glimpse of what's possible. Let’s dig into the juicy details.
Key Features and What’s New
Parallels Desktop 20.2.0 introduces x86_64 virtual machine (VM) support for Macs equipped with Apple’s M-series Silicon. Here’s what that means in plain English:- Run the Classics: You can now install and operate full versions of Windows 10, Windows 11, and even some heavy-duty server operating systems like Windows Server 2019 or 2022. That’s in addition to Linux distributions.
- Full Desktop Experience: Unlike the ARM-exclusive experience before, users can install x86 applications—think legacy software—not yet available for ARM systems.
- Hidden Beta Feature: The x86_64 mode is still very much in beta testing, with performance quirks and limitations (oh, we’ll get to these. Don’t worry). To use it, you’ll need to right-click a VM and select “Start using the emulator,” or launch it through the command line interface for those who know their way around terminal commands.
Tempered Enthusiasm: The Catch
While the update sounds like a dream come true, the reality check isn’t far behind. Yes, x86_64 is supported—but only just. Here are the standout limitations that users are facing in this beta:- Performance Hiccups: Boot times of 2–7 minutes? That’s an eternity in tech terms. Quick-caffeine-break level waiting isn’t ideal for anyone expecting snappy performance.
- Lag City: Even after the OS boots up, responsiveness is described as “very slow.” Gaming and other resource-heavy tasks are very much out of the question—for now.
- Missing Features Galore:
- No USB device support
- No audio support (yes, Windows without sound feels kind of spooky)
- A lack of recognition for connected devices
- No Support for 32-Bit Operating Systems: While 32-bit applications are supported, entire operating systems running in 32-bit mode are out of the equation. Why does this matter? It means niche setups and older OS environments aren’t going to work.
Behind the Curtain: Technology in Action
How is Parallels pulling off this Herculean feat? It’s a combination of Apple Silicon’s prowess and some smart virtualization. The Apple M-series processors already leverage their Neural Engine and robust architecture for tasks like running macOS software that needs Rosetta—a dynamic translation environment for x86 applications. But here’s where the beauty of Parallels steps in.Virtualization Meets Emulation
Virtualization creates a simulated environment for software to act like it’s running on its intended hardware. Add emulation into the mix—where the hardware “pretends” to be something entirely different—and voilà! Windows thinks it’s on an x86_64 system instead of ARM. This tech stack isn’t native or the most efficient dock worker ever to grace the tech yard, but it’s a major step forward.Apple’s chips are famously energy-efficient and powerful, but emulating a whole x86 architecture still takes its toll. The slow performance is likely due to this need for dynamic translation, where every instruction from Windows gets reinterpreted step-by-step. It’s like using Google Translate for a live speech—it takes time and patience.
What Does This Mean for You?
- For Developers and Power Users: If your workflow depends on niche Windows x86 applications or server environments, this is huge. You now have the option to run these workloads without needing a separate Windows machine.
- For Everyday Users: Unless you’ve got the patience of a monk, the slow performance and lack of USB/audio make this less appealing. It’s usable for experimentation, but for productivity? Not quite.
- For the Future of Computing Interaction: Apple and Parallels have shown us that the boundary between these two ecosystems can blur. The next generations of Apple M-series processors and Parallels Desktop might actually deliver a seamless Windows-on-Mac experience. This could make macOS and Windows feel less like rival families and more like siblings… wearing slightly different outfits.
The Road Ahead
What this announcement makes clear is that Apple Silicon is shaping the future with an undeniable ripple effect on software ecosystems. And Parallels Desktop is making all the right noise by doubling down on bridging the gap between these previously incompatible worlds.But with all its current restrictions, this update feels a bit like a concept car: It works, it’s cool to see in action… but it needs time before it’s ready for prime-time commercial use. Still, it signals an exciting future where dual-OS enthusiasts won’t have to make so many compromises.
For now, we tip our hats to Parallels for continuing to innovate in a problem space that frustrates so many users. And for those ready to dive into the deep end of beta testing, there’s never been a more thrilling time to be a Mac-and-Windows user.
What do you think? Would you try out the x86_64 support on Parallels with your M-series Mac? Or are the current limitations too steep for your needs? Drop your thoughts and experiences below!
Source: ITC.ua Windows 11 x86_64 support for Apple Macs with M chips is now available in Parallels Desktop
