Parallels Desktop for Mac

Parallels today offered the second release candidate 2 (RC2) of Parallels Desktop for Mac, the first virtualization software that gives Apple users the ability to simultaneously run Windows, Linux or any other operating system and their applications in a stable, secure high-performing, virtual machine alongside Mac OS X on any Intel-based Mac. RC2, the final release in the product’s multi-stage Beta program that has generated more than 100,000 testers, resolves technical issues and improves overall virtual machine performance as well as the functionality of a number of important features, including file sharing and cutting/pasting between operating systems, networking, USB device support and sound and video playback.

The company has also integrated Parallels Compressor Server, a powerful management tool that can reduce the size of Windows 2000, XP or 2003 virtual hard disks by 50% or more, according to the company. The enhanced product bundle will be available for $80, $150 less than the cost of buying stand-alone copies of Parallels Desktop ($50) and Parallels Compressor Server ($180). As an extended promotion, Parallels plans to offer the enhanced product for $50 for 30-days following its release. Customers who placed pre-orders at the special price of $40 will receive the feature-enhanced final Parallels Desktop product at no additional cost. The pre-order special price, which is half the product list price, remains in effect.

"By integrating Parallels Compressor functionality into the Desktop product, users save substantial time and money versus buying and installing the products separately," said Benjamin Rudolph, Marketing Manager, Parallels. "We’re staying true to our goals of building easy-to-use, high-value products while delivering additional benefits at an attractive pre-order special price."

by MacNN Staff