Last Updated on 17/10/2021 by TDH Publishing (A)
Parallels Desktop, the virtualization software that lets you run Windows on a Mac alongside macOS, now offers DirectX 11 support using Apple Metal, meaning it can render 3D graphics up to 15 percent faster.
The new feature comes as a part of version 15 of the software, which MacRumors notes will also add support for Catalina’s forthcoming Sidecar feature, as well as improved drag
and drop and Apple Pencil support. No virtualization software is going to be able to match the performance of running a game natively, however, it’s still nice to visualize the feature given some attention.
The last time we checked in with Parallels was back in 2016 when we noted that version 12 of the software couldn’t handle enough games well enough for us to recommend it to gamers. As well as better gaming performance, the enhancements created to Parallels Desktop 15 mean that the software will open Microsoft workplace apps up to 80 % quicker, and it also supports a wider range of non-gaming applications including Autodesk 3ds Max 2020.
Beyond DirectX 11 support, Parallels Desktop 15 will also support macOS Catalina’s new Sidecar feature. This means you’ll be able to use Windows apps on an iPad once you’re using it as a second screen for your mac, and it conjointly includes improved Apple Pencil support.
There’s also a new share choice to let you send mac files from your default Windows mail application, and therefore the software’s drag and drop feature currently supports pictures from Safari, Photos, and other macOS apps. One can read a whole list of the software’s new features here. Parallels Desktop 15 is available currently for a one-off price of $99.99, otherwise, you can subscribe to the pro or Business features for $99 a year.
If you have an older version of the software, then you can upgrade for $49.99. The software needs you to be running the Mojave, the present version of macOS, or later, while its Catalina specific features are expected to be launched around the same time
as the new macOS version launches later this year.
