Parallels announced its Parallels Desktop 9 for Mac client today, the new version of the virtualization software offering the following set of fixes and features:
– Cloud storage optimizations for iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive and SkyDrive.
– Support for OS X Launchpad in Windows applications
– Enhanced support for Apple’s forthcoming OS X 10.9 Mavericks.
– Incorporates the familiar Start menu and Windows Start button for Windows 8 users..
– Extends the OS X PowerNap feature to Windows and Windows applications.
– Allows Mountain Lion Dictionary gesture compatibility in Windows apps.
– Allows users to connect Thunderbolt and FireWire devices to either their Mac or virtual machine, just like with USB.
– Enhances the virtual machine wizard, making it easier to create new systems by automatically locating operating systems on a Mac. Users can also manually select a range of media types to install.
– 40 percent better disk performance than the previous version.
– Virtual machines shut down up to 25 percent faster than the previous version.
– Virtual machines suspend up to 20 percent faster than the previous version.
– 3D graphics and web browsing is 15 percent faster than the previous version.
– A new Security Center in Parallels Desktop 9 is said to make it easier to ensure that files are secure, both on the Mac and in a Windows virtual machine.
– In addition, Parallels Desktop 9 comes with a six-month subscription to Parallels Access for iPad, announced earlier this week. That new software allows customers to remotely access and experience Windows and Mac applications as if they were designed for Apple’s iPad.
– Mac gestures inside Windows apps: Parallels Desktop now includes the addition of the Dictionary lookup gesture in Windows applications.
– PDF printer for Windows: Lets people print from any Windows application to a PDF on the Mac desktop, even if the application doesn’t have that functionality.
– Sticky multi-monitor setup: When using Windows in Full Screen mode and connecting to an external monitor, Parallels Desktop will remember settings and put the Windows virtual machine back in full screen mode on the remote monitor.
– Custom keyboard: Editable keyboard shortcuts help customize the Windows experience.
– Linux guest integration: Parallels Desktop customers who use Linux now have additional and enhanced integration with the Mac OS.
Parallels Desktop 9 for Mac will become broadly available for purchase next Thursday, Sept. 5. It is now available as a US$50 upgrade for legacy Parallels users, and a free upgrade for those who recently bought Parallels Desktop 8.
Thursday’s launch of Parallels Desktop 9 is available for existing customers for US$49.99, while those who recently purchased may be eligible for a free upgrade. Customers who buy Parallels Desktop 8 today will also be eligible to upgrade to the new version at no additional charge.
Stay tuned for additional details as they become available.