Parallels has launched Parallels Desktop 20 for macOS, featuring a new AI package that comes with a pre-configured virtual machine equipped with 14 AI development tools.

This latest version is fully compatible with macOS Sequoia and Windows 11 24H2, enhancing user experience across various virtual machines.

Users can experience significant performance improvements, with some tasks showing up to an 80% speed increase when running Windows 11 VMs on Apple Silicon Macs.

This performance boost is largely due to a more efficient Prism emulator developed by Microsoft, which allows Windows apps designed for x86 chips to run on Arm-based Macs.

The AI package is available at no extra cost for customers with Business and Enterprise editions, and Pro users can access it for free throughout 2024.

The new Enterprise Edition includes a management portal that enhances control and efficiency in managing virtual machines and security policies.

Improvements in Windows VMs include enhancements to NVMe drivers, mouse cursor positioning, and dynamic resolution adjustments.

Parallels offers a 14-day free trial for users to explore the software, which is not free or open source.

The pricing structure includes a $129.99 perpetual license, a $99 annual subscription for the Standard Edition, and upgrade options available for $69.99.

Parallels Desktop is the only virtualization solution authorized by Microsoft to run Windows on Apple Silicon, providing flexibility for developers and users.

Parallels Desktop has achieved a SOC 2 Type 2 report, demonstrating its commitment to high standards of security and reliability.

Prashant Ketkar, CTO of Parallels, emphasized that the AI package aims to empower development teams to quickly build AI-enabled applications.