Computers

Parallels 11 supports Windows 10 with always-on Cortana

View 3 Images
The new version of Parallels brings new OS support and speed improvements
The new version of Parallels brings new OS support and speed improvements
The new version opens up support to the upcoming OS X El Capitan, as well as Windows 10
Parallels 11 includes a new travel mode, which tells Windows to use less power when you're not plugged into a wall outlet
View gallery - 3 images

The new version of popular virtual machine software Parallels has arrived, bringing with it support for new operating systems, as well as an always-on Cortana. This latest release is also reportedly significantly quicker than previous entries, with speed increases of up to 50 percent.

Parallels Desktop has been letting OS X users run Windows virtual machines for years, and it can be a pretty useful tool, giving users the functionality of two operating systems without the need to switch machine. The new version opens up support to the upcoming OS X El Capitan, as well as Windows 10. Of course, you'll still be able to use the virtual machine software with other operating systems, including Windows 7 and 8, Linux and Google Chrome.

One of the the most compelling new features of Parallels 11 is always-on Cortana. As long as Parallels is open somewhere and running Windows 10, you'll be able to to access Microsoft's virtual assistant service either through a toggle or using the "Hey Cortana" voice command. Considering that Apple hasn't brought Siri to Mac, some users are sure to love this.

The new version opens up support to the upcoming OS X El Capitan, as well as Windows 10

There's also a new travel mode, which tells Windows to use less power when you're not plugged into a wall outlet, extending up times when running the software. The whole program is also faster, with up to 50 percent quicker boot and shut down times, and up to a 20 percent improvement in performing general tasks.

Other enhancements include the ability to use Mac location services inside Windows, use QuickLook with Windows content, and OS X printer options are now available within Microsoft's OS.

Parallels Desktop 11 is available now, retailing for US$80 if you're a new customer. If you're an existing user of Parallels 9 or 10, you'll be able to get it for $58.

Source: Parallels

View gallery - 3 images
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Flipboard
  • LinkedIn
0 comments
There are no comments. Be the first!