Parallels Desktop, the Mac virtualization software, has released its latest version, Parallels Desktop 19, just in time for the upcoming macOS update. While it may not be the most groundbreaking update, it brings a range of improvements for Mac users who want to run Windows or Linux on their devices.
One of the standout features of Parallels Desktop 19 is the addition of support for Touch ID. Users can now utilize Touch ID to log in to their Windows virtual machine. Upon launching the Windows VM, the user’s password can be securely stored in their Mac’s keychain with a Touch ID-specific record unique to their device. However, it’s important to note that this feature is limited to signing into the VM and does not offer full Touch ID support throughout Windows.
To ensure compatibility with Apple’s upcoming macOS Sonoma update, Parallels made several adjustments. One significant change in Sonoma would have affected the Shared Printing feature, which allows printing from Windows VMs. Parallels’ engineers reconfigured the feature to ensure it continues to function within the new release while also making improvements.
Parallels is also addressing user frustrations when running macOS VMs on Apple Silicon. These improvements include resolving limited use of multi-touch gestures on the trackpad. Additionally, an upgrade in OpenGL support to version 4.1 enables more applications, particularly CAD software like VariCAD, Deswik.CAD, and Vectorworks Vision 2023, to run smoothly. However, DirectX 12 support is still absent.
Linux users will also benefit from the expanded support in Parallels Desktop 19. It is now possible to run x86 binaries and containers within a Linux ARM VM on Apple Silicon Macs thanks to innovative usage of macOS’s Rosetta 2. Alongside these updates, Parallels has also introduced some rebranding elements, including a new application icon, to enhance the user experience.
In terms of pricing, perpetual licenses for Parallels Desktop 19 are available at $129. Alternatively, users can opt for the software-as-a-service option and pay $99.99 annually for continual updates. Those who already possess a previous perpetual license can upgrade for $69.99. All the new features and enhancements in Parallels Desktop 19 are now available to users with a valid license.
As macOS users eagerly await the upcoming release of Apple’s latest operating system, Parallels Desktop 19 offers a range of optimizations and improvements for those who want to seamlessly integrate Windows and Linux into their Mac experience. Whether it’s utilizing Touch ID for login convenience or enhancing compatibility on Apple Silicon, Parallels continues to provide a reliable and efficient platform for virtualization needs.