Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac Now Available for AI-Ready VMs

AI-ready virtual machines revolutionize development: Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac introduces a groundbreaking AI Package, offering developers a secure and offline environment for AI experimentation and application deployment.

• The Parallels AI Package includes a pre-configured virtual machine with 14 AI development toolsets, sample code, and detailed instructions.
• This innovative solution caters to both seasoned professionals and beginners, allowing for quick and secure AI model experimentation.
• The AI VM operates entirely offline, providing a secure and private environment ideal for sensitive development work.
• Users can customize resources and disable network access, further enhancing security measures.

Industry insights and future trends: Parallels’ CTO, Prashant Ketkar, emphasizes the growing importance of AI in desktop computing and the need for developers to adapt to this shift.

• Ketkar predicts that AI will soon become a standard feature on every desktop PC.
• The Parallels AI Package aims to equip development teams with accessible AI models and code suggestions.
• This tool enables Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) to build AI-enabled applications rapidly, significantly boosting productivity for software development teams using Macs.

Enhanced compatibility and performance: Parallels Desktop 20 ensures seamless integration with the latest operating systems from Apple and Microsoft, while also optimizing performance for various workloads.

• The software supports macOS Sequoia and Windows 11 24H2, maintaining workflow efficiency for legacy Windows applications.
• Some workloads can experience up to an 80% performance boost, thanks to the enhanced Prism emulator built into Windows 11 on Arm.
• Shared folder technology improvements deliver up to 4x faster operations on Mac files in Linux VMs.

Enterprise-focused features and security: Parallels Desktop 20 introduces a new Enterprise Edition, catering to the specific needs of businesses and prioritizing security.

• The Enterprise Edition includes a management portal for greater control, visibility, and efficiency in managing virtual machines and security policies.
• Advanced licensing options, such as Single Sign-On (SSO) and volume licenses, are now supported.
• Premium support and onboarding services are included with the Enterprise Edition.
• Parallels Desktop 20 has achieved a SOC 2 Type 2 report and undergoes regular third-party penetration testing, ensuring trust for critical business applications.

Developer-centric tools and improvements: Parallels Desktop 20 enhances its offerings for developers, streamlining workflows and integrating cutting-edge AI assistance.

• Enhanced DevOps services allow developers to build software in Windows, Linux, and macOS VMs on Macs from any location.
• The updated Visual Studio Code Extension now integrates Microsoft Copilot, enabling users to control VMs using natural language.
• These improvements simplify development workflows and increase productivity for developers across different platforms.

Availability and pricing: Parallels Desktop 20 for Mac offers multiple editions to cater to various user needs and preferences.

• The software is available in Standard, Pro, and Business editions.
• The Parallels AI Package is included at no additional cost in the Business and Enterprise editions.
• Pro Edition users can access the AI Package free of charge throughout 2024.

Broader implications: The release of Parallels Desktop 20 with its AI-ready virtual machines marks a significant step in democratizing AI development and integration across various computing platforms.

• This tool could accelerate the adoption of AI-enabled applications across industries, as developers can now more easily experiment with and implement AI features.
• The focus on offline, secure AI development environments addresses growing concerns about data privacy and security in AI development.
• As AI becomes more prevalent in desktop computing, tools like Parallels Desktop 20 may play a crucial role in bridging the gap between traditional software development and AI-driven applications.