Parallels Desktop 20: Uniting macOS and Windows with AI Support

In the rapidly evolving landscape of virtualization, Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac has arrived, offering a suite of new features that cater to tech enthusiasts, developers, and casual users alike. This latest iteration promises not just to enhance the user experience but to significantly bridge the gap between macOS and Windows environments—a critical improvement for anyone juggling multiple operating systems especially with the new support for macOS Sequoia, Windows 11 24H2, and even a nod towards artificial intelligence development. Let’s examine what this means in practical terms and why it matters in today’s tech ecosystem. A Deeper Dive into the New Features Parallels Desktop 20 has brought an upgraded virtualization experience that encapsulates the user’s needs, whether they are using Windows 11 24H2 or experimenting with the latest macOS features. For those unfamiliar, Parallels Desktop allows Mac users to run Windows and other operating systems seamlessly alongside macOS, a capability that has become increasingly essential as the digitization of our lives accelerates.

Support for macOS Sequoia and Windows 11 24H2​

One of the standout enhancements in Parallels Desktop 20 is its support for macOS Sequoia—a significant milestone, as Sequoia brings with it a fresh set of features and improvements over previous macOS versions. This allows macOS users to take full advantage of the modernized OS while still running critical Windows applications without the overhead of dual-booting or compatibility compromises. Moreover, Windows 11 24H2 is now fully integrated, reflecting Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to driving productivity and security within its ecosystem. This alignment indicates a growing trend towards blending user experiences across devices—a key demand in today's hybrid work environment. With Windows 11 known for its enhanced security features, including hardware-based isolation and integrated Microsoft Defender, Parallels ensures that Mac users can leverage these advancements without sacrificing their preferred macOS experience.

AI Development Support: A Future-Ready Tool​

In a world where artificial intelligence is reshaping the technological landscape, Parallels Desktop 20’s inclusion of AI development support signals its forward-thinking approach. This new feature not only enables developers to run AI models and tools from their Macs with ease, but also ensures that they can do so in a Windows environment, where a significant amount of AI development tools and services reside. In an era where fast-paced innovation is the norm, providing these capabilities in a virtualization solution is not just beneficial; it's essential.

Enhanced User Experience and Performance​

What does this mean for productivity? Parallels has emphasized performance improvements in this version—factors like faster resource allocation and greater responsiveness to user inputs can significantly impact workflows. Parallels Desktop 20 also promises to optimize the use of system resources, which is crucial for users who may be running multiple applications across both macOS and Windows environments. The integration of M1 and M2 chip optimizations means Mac users with these processors can expect faster virtualization and significantly reduced CPU overhead. This not only enhances the performance of programs running on Windows but ensures that even resource-heavy applications function smoothly—a vital feature for video editing, development tasks, and other CPU-intensive workloads. Implications for Windows Users and the Broader Tech Community So, what does this all mean for the average Windows user? While the Parallels ecosystem is primarily catered towards macOS users, the ripple effects are far-reaching. As more users adopt dual environments for flexibility and usability, an uptick in interest and usage among Windows users can be anticipated. This is only bolstered by the current trend of businesses shifting towards hybrid models, which necessitate a high degree of interoperability across devices and operating systems. For IT administrators and professionals, the ability to manage tools across different platforms without friction translates to increased productivity, better resource management, and enhanced user satisfaction. As organizations navigate the new normal of remote work, such virtual environments can facilitate smooth transitions and better collaboration, particularly in teams that are split between different operating systems. Historical Context: The Evolution of Virtualization It’s pertinent to reflect on how we arrived at this point. Virtualization technology has flourished over the years, starting with solutions like VMware and VirtualBox, then evolving into sophisticated systems like Parallels that follow the trends of increasing mobility and workforce flexibility. Initially, tools like Parallels Desktop catered predominantly to developers and tech enthusiasts, but as the lines between work and personal computing blur, the demand has expanded into mainstream consumer markets. Each advancement in virtualization software, including the recent Parallels Desktop 20, echoes broader trends within the tech industry towards more integrated and user-friendly experiences. Conclusion: A Compelling Choice for Mac Users As Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac hits the shelves, it presents a compelling choice for anyone looking to harness the power of both macOS and Windows. With enhanced support for modern operating systems, a focus on performance improvements, and solutions for AI development, it positions itself as a pivotal tool in the cross-platform technical toolkit. Whether you’re a developer wanting to experiment with the latest in AI or a remote worker needing to access Windows applications alongside your macOS setup, Parallels has made a significant stride forward. It reflects a world where boundaries between different operating systems continue to diminish, promoting fluidity and flexibility that users demand in our increasingly digital existence. Recap:

• Parallels Desktop 20 supports macOS Sequoia and Windows 11 24H2.
• Enhanced performance and user experience cater to diverse user needs.
• New features like AI development support highlight forward-thinking capabilities.
• The software embraces the seamless integration of hybrid work models. By embracing such innovative solutions, users can look forward to an era where technology truly serves their multifaceted needs, regardless of the operating system they favor. As we move into this new phase of digital evolution, Parallels Desktop 20 stands ready to make its mark, facilitating the flow between platforms and empowering users in their digital endeavors. Source: O'Grady's PowerPage Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac ships, offers macOS Sequoia, Windows 11 24H2, AI development support

 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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Source: ITC.ua Windows 11 x86_64 support for Apple Macs with M chips is now available in Parallels Desktop