Parallels 11: Same product, different box for Apple Stores

Fri, 21st Aug 2015

FYI, this story is more than a year old

Such is Apple's market power that then new version of Parallels – which allows Mac users to run Windows, Linux and OS X in virtual machines on the Mac – is being released with two different packaging options.

Most retailers will be selling the recently updated software in larger packaging with Apple stores getting their own slimmed down packaging.

The new version of Parallels, now in its eleventh iteration, offers several compelling new features. In particular, we like the way Cortana – Windows 10's voice-activated system concierge can be used to control the Mac, giving users a Siri-like experience before Apple gets their voice management system into their own OS.

Also, there's new integration with Microsoft's Visual Studio for developers that allows developers to easily test code in different virtual machines without having to manually migrate code from their development virtual machine.

For the first time, Parallels will be offering a subscription software model with the developer version. Parallels Desktop remains a purchased application with the different boxes in Apple Stores and other retailers.

Parallels Desktop 11 for Mac, Parallels Desktop 11 for Mac Pro Edition and Parallels Desktop 11 for Mac Business Edition are available now to both current and new Parallels Desktop for Mac users at www.parallels.com/desktop and at the following retailers; Apple Retail - Online Store; JB Hi-Fi, Harvey Norman, Domayne, Next Byte, Computers Now, Mac1 and leading computer stores.

The recommended retail price of Parallels Desktop 11 for Mac is AU$99.95. Upgrades for existing Parallels Desktop 9 or 10 for Mac customers are AU$64.95, with an introductory offer to upgrade to a Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition subscription for $49.99 per year. Parallels Desktop 11 for Mac Pro Edition is available at AU$124.95 and Parallels Desktop 11 for Mac Business Edition is available for AU$124.95 per year. Parallels Desktop for Mac Pro Edition includes a complimentary Parallels Access subscription to remotely access their Mac from any device.