Fresh off the virtual presses, Parallels has unveiled its latest offering: Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac. This release is more than just another update—it's a pivotal step forward in virtualization technology, particularly for developers eager to harness the power of artificial intelligence. With robust new features, improved performance, and enhanced security measures, Parallels Desktop 20 is poised to transform the user experience for both individual developers and enterprises alike.
AI Development Simplified
At the core of this release is the innovative Parallels AI Package, a pre-configured virtual machine toolkit designed specifically for AI application development. Bundled with 14 development toolsets, sample codes, and comprehensive instructions, this package significantly lowers the barrier for entry into AI experimentation. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a newcomer, the Parallels AI Package allows you to experiment with various AI models securely and offline—ideal for sensitive work environments where data privacy is paramount.
Prashant Ketkar, CTO at Parallels, encapsulated the urgency of this innovation by stating, “As PCs become more AI-capable, we believe AI will soon be standard on every desktop." This belief underscores a crucial shift in the developer landscape, where AI is not just an add-on but a fundamental pillar of modern software development. With the included offline capability, developers can customize their work environments, manage resource allocations, and disable network access to further fortify their security.
Compatibility and Performance Enhancements
One of the standout features of Parallels Desktop 20 is its compatibility with the latest operating systems from Apple and Microsoft, such as macOS Sequoia and Windows 11 24H2. Such compatibility ensures that users can seamlessly operate legacy applications without compromising workflow efficiency. Powered by the enhanced Prism emulator integrated into Windows 11 on Arm, Parallels boasts impressive performance improvements, with some workloads experiencing enhancements up to 80%.
Moreover, shared folder technology has also seen significant upgrades, promising up to four times faster operations when transferring Mac files in Linux virtual machines (VMs). This combination of superior performance and impressive speed will resonate well with developers who need to juggle multiple tasks across different operating systems.
Enterprise Solutions and Security Commitments
For the enterprise sector, Parallels has rolled out a new Enterprise Edition, showcasing a management portal that enhances control, visibility, and efficiency over virtual machines. Coupled with advanced licensing options, including Single Sign-On (SSO) and volume licenses, businesses can effectively streamline their operations while maintaining robust security policies.
In an era where data vulnerability is a pervasive concern, Parallels has taken strides to secure its platform. The release of Parallels Desktop 20 is backed by a SOC 2 Type 2 report, along with regular third-party penetration testing. These proactive measures not only instill a sense of trust among corporate users but also ensure that businesses can rely on Parallels for their most critical operations.
Empowering Developers and Enhancing Productivity
With a broad array of DevOps improvements, the latest version of Parallels also makes software development more accessible. Developers can now build applications flexibly on Windows, Linux, and macOS VMs from any location. Those using Visual Studio Code will appreciate the integration of Microsoft Copilot, enabling natural language control over their virtual machines, further simplifying workflows in an increasingly complex development landscape.
The standard, Pro, and Business editions available for Parallels Desktop 20 reflect the diverse needs of its user base. Notably, the AI Package is included at no extra cost in the Business and Enterprise editions and will be free in the Pro Edition through the end of 2024.
Conclusion: Why Parallels Desktop 20 Matters
The release of Parallels Desktop 20 represents a significant leap forward in virtualization technology tailored for Mac users, especially those venturing into AI development. The innovative tools, enhanced performance, and robust security features undoubtedly enhance productivity and creativity for developers at all levels.
Parallels is responding to a crucial market need—one where the integration of AI tools into everyday development practices is becoming a standard expectation. As digital landscapes continue to evolve, Parallels Desktop 20 stands out as an essential tool that not only enhances the user experience but also aligns with future technological trends.
Recap of Key Features in Parallels Desktop 20:
Source: 9to5Mac Parallels Desktop 20 is now available with AI-ready VMs
AI Development Simplified
At the core of this release is the innovative Parallels AI Package, a pre-configured virtual machine toolkit designed specifically for AI application development. Bundled with 14 development toolsets, sample codes, and comprehensive instructions, this package significantly lowers the barrier for entry into AI experimentation. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a newcomer, the Parallels AI Package allows you to experiment with various AI models securely and offline—ideal for sensitive work environments where data privacy is paramount.
Prashant Ketkar, CTO at Parallels, encapsulated the urgency of this innovation by stating, “As PCs become more AI-capable, we believe AI will soon be standard on every desktop." This belief underscores a crucial shift in the developer landscape, where AI is not just an add-on but a fundamental pillar of modern software development. With the included offline capability, developers can customize their work environments, manage resource allocations, and disable network access to further fortify their security.
Compatibility and Performance Enhancements
One of the standout features of Parallels Desktop 20 is its compatibility with the latest operating systems from Apple and Microsoft, such as macOS Sequoia and Windows 11 24H2. Such compatibility ensures that users can seamlessly operate legacy applications without compromising workflow efficiency. Powered by the enhanced Prism emulator integrated into Windows 11 on Arm, Parallels boasts impressive performance improvements, with some workloads experiencing enhancements up to 80%.
Moreover, shared folder technology has also seen significant upgrades, promising up to four times faster operations when transferring Mac files in Linux virtual machines (VMs). This combination of superior performance and impressive speed will resonate well with developers who need to juggle multiple tasks across different operating systems.
Enterprise Solutions and Security Commitments
For the enterprise sector, Parallels has rolled out a new Enterprise Edition, showcasing a management portal that enhances control, visibility, and efficiency over virtual machines. Coupled with advanced licensing options, including Single Sign-On (SSO) and volume licenses, businesses can effectively streamline their operations while maintaining robust security policies.
In an era where data vulnerability is a pervasive concern, Parallels has taken strides to secure its platform. The release of Parallels Desktop 20 is backed by a SOC 2 Type 2 report, along with regular third-party penetration testing. These proactive measures not only instill a sense of trust among corporate users but also ensure that businesses can rely on Parallels for their most critical operations.
Empowering Developers and Enhancing Productivity
With a broad array of DevOps improvements, the latest version of Parallels also makes software development more accessible. Developers can now build applications flexibly on Windows, Linux, and macOS VMs from any location. Those using Visual Studio Code will appreciate the integration of Microsoft Copilot, enabling natural language control over their virtual machines, further simplifying workflows in an increasingly complex development landscape.
The standard, Pro, and Business editions available for Parallels Desktop 20 reflect the diverse needs of its user base. Notably, the AI Package is included at no extra cost in the Business and Enterprise editions and will be free in the Pro Edition through the end of 2024.
Conclusion: Why Parallels Desktop 20 Matters
The release of Parallels Desktop 20 represents a significant leap forward in virtualization technology tailored for Mac users, especially those venturing into AI development. The innovative tools, enhanced performance, and robust security features undoubtedly enhance productivity and creativity for developers at all levels.
Parallels is responding to a crucial market need—one where the integration of AI tools into everyday development practices is becoming a standard expectation. As digital landscapes continue to evolve, Parallels Desktop 20 stands out as an essential tool that not only enhances the user experience but also aligns with future technological trends.
Recap of Key Features in Parallels Desktop 20:
- Introduction of the Parallels AI Package for efficient AI development.
- Compatibility with macOS Sequoia and Windows 11 24H2.
- Enhanced performance with up to 80% improvement for certain workloads.
- New Enterprise Edition for better management and licensing.
- Robust security features, including a SOC 2 Type 2 report.
- Improved DevOps support and integration with Microsoft Copilot in Visual Studio Code.
Source: 9to5Mac Parallels Desktop 20 is now available with AI-ready VMs
