Fusion beta version

VMware is testing a new version of Fusion, its virtualization application for running alternate OS environments from within Mac OS X. Fusion allows users to run and switch between both Windows and Mac applications on one computer, and include drag-and-drop features for sending files between different operating systems. The private beta, released to a select group of beta testers, offers simpler access to common tasks in the Virtual Machine Library, added support for DirectX 9.0c with Shader Model 3 functions, experimental OpenGL 2.1 support, and a new “migration assistant” for moving from Windows XP or Vista to the Mac.

Other modifications in the preview provide an "always-on" application menu where users can start Windows applications directly, and changes to the automatic updates to help with checking, downloading and installing updates. Additional support is also included for the Mac OS X 10.6 (32-bit only), along with experimental guest support for Windows 7.

VMware has yet to release a closing date for the preview, or when current users can expect to have the new features. Fusion is available as free trial download, or can be purchased starting at $80 for a single user license.

by MacNN Staff