Parallels Desktop 17 brings Windows 11 to macOS Monterey
Parallels Desktop 17 lets you run Windows 11 on your Mac with an Intel or Apple M1 chip.
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What you need to know
Parallels announced the newest version of its cross-platform software, Parallels Desktop 17. The program promises significantly faster speeds and better performance than its predecessor. It’s optimized to runWindows 11on Macs running either Intel or Apple M1 chips. Parallels Desktop 17 starts at $80 per year and ranges up to $100 per year for its pro and business editions. People with previous versions of Parallels Desktop can upgrade for $50.
All supported Macs will see up to 38% faster performance when resuming Windows, Linux, and macOS. Parallels Desktop 17 also brings an OpenGL graphics performance boost of up to six times and up to 25% faster 2D graphics in Windows.
If you’re on a Mac with an M1 chip, you’ll have up to 33% faster startup and up to 20% faster disk performance for Windows 10 on ARM Insider Preview. M1 Macs will also get up to 28% better DirectX 11 graphics performance. It’s important to note that M1 Macs can only emulateWindows on ARM. That comes with some limitations, though it has improved since its launch.
Those with Macs running Intel processors will benefit from up to 60% faster network connection on macOS Big Sur and newer virtual machines.
Parallels highlights that its latest software enhances gaming and video playback, thanks to an improved display driver. It also adds advanced experience and support for USB devices, including support for USB 3.1. People can also drag and drop content between Windows and macOS with the latest version of Parallels.
Parallels Desktop 17 handles system resources better than its predecessor as well since it can enable battery saving mode and work with a new Automatic Resource Manager feature.
Parallels provides a complete list of everything that’s new on itswebsite. Parallels Desktop 17 is available starting today, August 10, 2021.
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The latest version of Parallels Desktop is optimized for Windows 11 and macOS Monterey. It brings a long list of new features and significantly better performance and speed than its predecessor.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
