As tech enthusiasts and developers, we’re all eager to get our hands on the latest features and innovations.  

However, upgrading your entire Mac to the beta version might not be the most practical approach, especially when you want to stabilize your primary environment.  

Thankfully, Parallels Desktop offers the most convenient way to preview macOS Sequoia 15 in a virtual machine.  

You can explore the latest macOS in a safe, isolated environment without altering your primary system.  

Plus, we’re thrilled to offer a free 14-day trial of Parallels Desktop, with no commitment required. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started with macOS Sequoia 15 on Parallels Desktop. 

Install macOS Sequoia 15 in a Virtual Machine 

Note: your Apple ID must be a member of the Apple Developer Program to proceed. 

1. Download, unzip, and install the latest Xcode beta tools 

   – Head over to the Apple Developer Downloads page to get the latest Xcode beta tools. 

*Note: Install MobileDevice.pkg manually (navigate to Xcode-beta.app/Contents/Resources/Packages and install MobileDevice.pkg).

2. Download the macOS 15 beta restore image 

   – Visit the Operating Systems Downloads page and download the macOS 15 beta restore image. 

3. Create a new macOS VM in Parallels Desktop 

   – Open Parallels Desktop. 

   – Click File > New. 

   – Select Install Windows, Linux, or macOS from an image file, then click Continue. 

   – Choose the downloaded macOS 15 beta image file and click Continue. 

   – Set your desired name for the VM and click Create. 

4. Wait for the installation to complete 

   – Parallels Desktop will guide you through the macOS installation process. This may take some time, so be patient as your new virtual machine is set up. 

5. Complete the macOS setup 

   – Once the installation is complete, follow the on-screen instructions to set up a new user account in macOS Sequoia 15. 

6. Install Parallels Tools 

   – On the menu bar, click on the virtual machine name > Install Parallels Tools. 

   – When the installation is complete, restart macOS 15. Parallels Tools bring clipboard synchronization and file sharing between your primary macOS and the virtual machine. 

Important limitations to note 

– Signing into an Apple ID in a virtual machine is not supported: you won’t be able to sign into your Apple ID within the VM. 

– If you have an active VPN connection on the primary macOS, the virtual machine may lose network access. If this happens, shutdown the VM > open the VM configuration > Hardware > Network > Source: > switch to the Bridged network mode. 

– Snapshots are not available yet for macOS virtual machines on Apple silicon. 

Discover the latest innovations in macOS Sequoia 15  

With Parallels Desktop, you can seamlessly explore macOS Sequoia 15 and stay ahead of the curve.  

Our virtual machine software provides the flexibility and power you need to test new features without compromising your main operating system.  

Don’t wait—download your free 14-day trial of Parallels Desktop today and dive into the future of macOS! 

Happy exploring! 

The Parallels Desktop Team 

Try Parallels Desktop Free for 14 Days 

Disclaimer: Features and steps mentioned are subject to updates and changes as software evolves. 

The post Preview macOS Sequoia 15 with Parallels Desktop – The Ultimate Convenience for Tech Enthusiasts and Developers! appeared first on Parallels Blog.

The recent release of Apple’s PQ3 security protocol for iMessage stands out from previous changes as a remarkable leap forward.  

This protocol isn’t just another security update; rather, it’s a forward-thinking innovation designed to shield our digital communications against the anticipated threats posed by quantum computing.  

What is the Apple PQ3 security protocol?  

PQ3, or Post-Quantum Cryptography for the third generation, is a fusion of cutting-edge cryptographic techniques aimed at future-proofing our digital interactions. It’s designed to protect users from hackers using quantum computers to harvest vast amounts of data — a strategy referred to as “harvest first, decrypt later” or HNDL.  

According to Apple, PQ3 is the most significant cryptographic security upgrade in iMessage history. It is the first messaging protocol to reach what Apple refers to as “Level 3 Security” and provides protections above and beyond those available in other popular messaging apps.  

How does Parallels Desktop enable Windows users to leverage PQ3? 

As someone deeply entrenched in both the Apple ecosystem and a Windows-centric professional environment, delving into the potential of PQ3 and how it can be leveraged via Parallels Desktop has been a revelation.  

My personal exploration highlights the significance of Apple’s PQ3 technology and how Parallels Desktop acts as a bridge, allowing Windows users like me to tap into Apple’s pioneering security protocol while maintaining our indispensable Windows workflows. 

Understanding PQ3: A quantum leap in security 

Let’s start by understanding what PQ3 is designed to accomplish. At its core, PQ3 is Apple’s response to the quantum computing challenge, incorporating post-quantum cryptography (PQC) alongside traditional elliptic-curve cryptography (ECC).  

This dual-layered approach is engineered to ensure that iMessage remains a bastion of privacy, securing our communications against both current and future threats.  

For me, delving into PQ3 was about understanding how Apple is preparing our digital dialogues to be quantum-resistant, a crucial move as quantum computers promise to disrupt the very foundation of current encryption standards. 

The Parallels Desktop gateway: Embracing PQ3 as a Windows user 

The introduction of PQ3 intrigued me, not just as an advocate for privacy but as a Windows user navigating a Mac-centric innovation.  

Here, Parallels Desktop is a critical piece of the puzzle. It offers a seamless solution for running Windows on a Mac, providing a unique opportunity for Windows users to benefit from Apple’s PQ3 security enhancements.  

Parallels Desktop ensures that Windows applications and workflows can coexist within the secure enclave of macOS, including the quantum-resistant protection of iMessage.  

This means that with Parallels Desktop, Windows users like me (and you) aren’t left behind; rather, we can embrace and benefit from the same security innovations that Mac users enjoy, all while continuing to use the software and applications that are integral to our daily tasks. 

What PQ3 and Parallels Desktop mean for me 

The introduction of PQ3 paired with the capabilities of Parallels Desktop has been transformative for my digital security and workflow integration.  

Here are a few reasons why: 

• Enhanced security for all. By integrating PQ3’s quantum-resistant technology with my Windows environment through Parallels Desktop, I’m not just future-proofing my work and personal communications — I’m extending this cutting-edge security to my entire digital footprint. 
• Seamless integration. Parallels Desktop allows me to run Windows seamlessly on my Mac, ensuring that the transition between operating systems is fluid and that I can leverage PQ3’s security benefits without sacrificing the familiarity and functionality of Windows. 
• A unified solution. This combination offers a compelling value proposition — access to Apple’s latest security protocols and the flexibility to maintain a Windows-centric workflow without compromise. 

A personal reflection on security in the Mac and Windows worlds  

For me, embracing Parallels Desktop in conjunction with Apple’s PQ3 protocol has been about more than just navigating between two operating systems — it’s been a journey towards securing my digital life against the quantum threats on the horizon.  

This exploration has provided a practical solution to the challenge of securely operating within both Mac and Windows ecosystems and offered a glimpse into a future where my digital and professional worlds are safeguarded by the most advanced security measures available.  

With Parallels Desktop, I’ve found a way to harness the power of Apple’s PQ3 protocol, ensuring that my reliance on Windows software doesn’t leave me at a security disadvantage.  

This journey has redefined my approach to digital privacy and security, showcasing that with the right tools, it’s possible to enjoy the best of both worlds — without compromise. 

Ready to try Parallels Desktop yourself? Get your free trial now. 

The post My deep dive into Apple’s PQ3 security and Parallels Desktop: A Windows user’s perspective appeared first on Parallels Blog.

Users can rest assured that Parallels Desktop is authorized by Microsoft to run Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise in a virtual machine on an M3 chip Mac. 

If you already own or plan to purchase a new Macbook Pro, iMac, or an Air with the M3 chip, know that you don’t have to give up your favorite Windows applications or any of their functionality.  

You can still play many popular PC games as well.  

Here are the Macs that have an M3 chip (as of this publication date): 

• MacBook Pro (14-inch, Nov 2023) 
• MacBook Pro (16-inch, Nov 2023) 
• MacBook Air (13-inch, Mar 2024) 
• MacBook Air (15-inch, Mar 2024) 
• iMac (24-inch, 2023) 

Performance improvements will affect CPU and Graphics intensive workloads, especially if users switch from Intel Macs (note that you will need to reinstall Windows and apps).   

Also, even though it has been reported that users are having a great experience with 8GB RAM configurations, I recommend users get more RAM, especially if they plan to multi-task work with videos or multiple virtual machines. 

Do you have an Apple M3 chip but need to run Windows? Sign up for a free 14-day trial of Parallels Desktop to run Windows on your M3 chip. 

What is unique about the Apple M3 Macs? 

Apple’s M3 chip represents major strides in personal computing.  

Apple’s M3 Macbook Pros, Airs, and iMacs are built on a 3-nanometer process, which enhances the speed and power efficiency of the chip by fitting more transistors into a smaller space.  

The M3 machines boast the first 3-nanometer chips in a personal computer and marking the debut of a next-generation GPU architecture.  

They offer dramatic improvements in performance with a faster CPU and Neural Engine and support for even more unified memory.  

The latest line-up of Macs also includes ray tracing, mesh shading, and dynamic caching.  

These M3 Macs are the most sustainable yet, meeting Apple’s high standards for energy efficiency.  

M3 Macs offer up to 22 hours of battery life (the longest ever for a Mac), meaning they need to be plugged in for less time, resulting in less energy consumed over their lifetimes. 

M series chip comparison charts: See how Apple M3 chips compare to M1 and M2  

Curious about how the M3 chip stacks up against the M1 and M2 chips? I’ve put together Apple M3, M2, and M1 comparison charts.   

Environment for Apple M2Max vs. M3 Chips 

Hardware: 

• M2Max-powered (8+4)CPU 96GiB MBP, 
• M3-powered (4+4)CPU 16GiB MBP. 

Software: 

• macOS 14.1.1 (23B2082), 
• Windows 11 22621.2715 / 2CPU / 8GiB 

Results for Apple M2 Max vs. M3 chips  

Single-core score: 

These (computationally intensive) workloads consistently yield 10-30% better score on M3 than on M2. 

Testing environment for Apple M1Max versus M3 chips  

Hardware: 

• M1Max-powered (8+2)CPU 32GiB MBP, 
• M3-powered (4+4)CPU 16GiB MBP. 

Software: 

• macOS 13.6 (22G120) – host (a), 
• macOS 14.1.1 (23B2082) – host (b), 
• Windows 11 22621.2715 / 2CPU / 8GiB. 

Results for Apple M1Max versus M3 Chips  

Single-core score: 

These (computationally intensive) workloads consistently yield 20.40% better scores on M3 than on M1. 

How to assess if a faster processor will improve performance using Task Manager  

The Apple M3 chip family shows significant single-core and multi-core speed improvements over the previous M1 and M2 processors.   

If you want to determine whether upgrading to a Mac with a faster processor will enhance your computing experience, the Task Manager on Windows can provide valuable insights.   

Here’s how to evaluate your current performance and understand the potential benefits of a faster processor using a Microsoft Windows virtual machine running under Parallels Desktop for Mac.  

1. Run a workload that you want to improve 

2. Access Task Manager from Windows Start Menu or using the processor icon in the VM title bar   

• Hint: Ctrl + Shift + Esc  

3. Monitor Current CPU usage:  

• Observe your current CPU usage in the “Processes” or “Details” tab. Pay attention to the percentage of CPU resources being used.  
• Identify CPU-Bound processes: Sort the processes by “% CPU” to identify which applications or processes consume the most CPU resources. These processes are potential candidates for performance improvement with a faster processor.  
• Look for consistency: Note if certain processes consistently utilize a high percentage of CPU. If some tasks are CPU-bound, a faster processor can likely accelerate their execution.  
• Check for CPU Core usage: In the “Performance” tab, monitor the utilization of individual CPU cores. If you notice that one or more cores are consistently maxed out while the others remain idle, your tasks may benefit from a processor with higher single-thread performance.  

Leverage the performance and efficiency of Apple’s M3 chip for Windows and Linux  

Windows and Linux users can now leverage the exceptional performance and energy efficiency of the M3 chip while seamlessly accessing their beloved operating systems through Parallels Desktop.  

There’s no need to use multiple computers to access the applications you need — everything is accessible from your M3 Mac.  

Parallels Desktop expands the capabilities of your M3 Mac even further; you only need to carry one laptop to get the best of both Mac and Windows.  

It’s less hassle for you and more sustainable in the long run.  

The synergy between Apple’s M3 chip and Parallels Desktop promises a winning combination that will likely surpass your expectations.  

The Parallels team strongly emphasizes the quality of our software products and the user experience.   

With the recent launch of Mac computers equipped with Apple M3 chips, I am committed to thorough testing and assessment involving our internal testing facilities and your valuable input.   

If I find any issues, I will report the issues in the Knowledge Base.  

If you happen to come across an issue with Parallels Desktop that can be reproduced on a Mac with an Apple M3 chip, kindly share your M3 experience on the forum.   

If you are not a current user, find out how Parallels Desktop lets you maximize performance and unlock the full power of your M3-powered Mac.   

Do you have an Apple M3 chip but need to run Windows? Sign up for a free 14-day trial of Parallels Desktop to run Windows on your M3 chip.  

The post Apple’s new M3 chip family available on Macbook Pros, Airs, and iMacs — see what this means for Parallels Desktop users appeared first on Parallels Blog.

For most users, it might not matter if you use Mac or a PC to run Excel.  

However, for power users or anyone who needs to leverage the more advanced features of Excel, you probably want the Windows version. There are advanced features that are only available in the Windows version of Excel that simply aren’t replicated in the version made for Macs. So if you work in an all-Mac company or are otherwise devoted to Macs, this could be a problem.  

In summary: 

• Windows Excel offers more features, better support, and more comprehensive VBA code capabilities compared to Mac. 
• Windows provides advanced features such as forecasting, multi-item clipboard, and live preview that are not available in the Mac version. 

• The most important consideration when deciding between the two versions of Excel? Your individual needs plus how advanced your skills are. 

In this blog post, we’ll help you make an informed decision based on your needs by comparing the features, functionality, and user experience of Microsoft Excel on Mac versus Microsoft Excel on Windows. 

Excel versions: Mac vs Windows 

Primary difference: Windows offers more advanced features for power users of Excel.  

With Microsoft Excel, the Windows version generally offers more features, better support from Microsoft, and more comprehensive VBA code capabilities compared to its Mac counterpart. Experienced Excel users may encounter a range of differences between the two options, including the ability to connect to multiple data sources using the Windows version. 

The Windows version of Excel offers additional functionality such as the autosave feature, the “View Side by Side” feature, and the “smart tag” feature that are not available in the Mac version. Additionally, visual effects are only available for Windows users of Excel. 

Both versions can be acquired from Microsoft stores or common retail stores. The Office 2021 Home and Student version retails for $149.99 in the MS Store, while Office 2021 Home and Business edition retails for $249.99 in the MS Store. Both versions include the Quick Access Toolbar (QAT). Read on to compare various popular Excel features and capabilities and how they are different in Excel for Windows and Excel for Mac. 

Keyboard shortcuts and layouts 

Primary difference: Windows Excel offers advanced shortcuts and customization. 

Mac and Windows have distinct keyboard shortcuts and layouts, with Windows generally considered to offer more choices and simpler navigation. This can be beneficial for users with advanced Excel skills. Page Break View, for instance, is only available to Microsoft Office 365 users, and earlier versions of Excel do not include access to this feature. 

The Quick Access Toolbar (QAT) in Excel for Mac cannot be imported or exported, and installing a new version of Excel will erase any personalized modifications made to it. This can be a disadvantage for power users who rely on customizations to improve their workflow. 

Moreover, certain commonly used shortcuts, including “Paste only formulas” and “Paste Link”, are exclusive to PC and not compatible with Mac. 

Power Pivot and data analysis 

Primary difference: Excel for Windows includes fully functional Power Pivot and dynamic Pivot Charts and Pivot Tables. 

Power Pivot is a valuable tool for business intelligence that enables users to import large volumes of data into a single Excel workbook from various data sources, providing the ability to link heterogeneous data and formulate it into columns, charts, Pivot Tables, and Pivot Charts.  

Unfortunately, the Mac version of Excel does not support Power Pivot. This means users of Excel on Mac are unable to access this powerful and popular function. 

In contrast to the Windows version, Pivot Charts and Pivot Tables in Excel for Mac are static in nature and cannot be automatically adjusted to reflect changes made to their source Pivot Table. This means that they must be manually updated whenever changes occur. These graphs remain static, as if they were a screenshot; they don’t change dynamically with incoming data. Pivot Tables based on the Excel Data Model cannot be filtered if a Mac user opens the spreadsheet. However, this issue will not occur for Windows users. 

While Mac users can access files with Power Pivot exclusive functions, the Power Pivot exclusive functions may not be available. Navigate to File > Options in your Excel on Windows. Select the “Add-ins” tab and choose “Power Pivot” from the list. 

The ability to use pivot tables and pivot charts to perform data analysis and visual data is one of the most valuable features of Excel for many advanced users, making it an essential feature to consider when determining which version of Excel is best for you. 

Visual Basic Editor and VBA limitations 

Primary difference: the Windows version of Excel provides mass distribution and synchronization. 

Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) is a powerful programming language used to create applications within Microsoft products, including Excel.  Unsurprisingly, the VBA language in Excel for Mac is not as comprehensive as it is in Excel for Windows and it’s lacking in several key properties and functions. 

 For instance, extended ASCII characters in VBA typically differ in MacOS, certain macro keyboard shortcuts appear to be reserved, VBA animation is only available with Excel for Windows, and right-click context menus are not editable with VBA in Excel for Mac. 

Because using VBA for Excel on Mac has many drawbacks and lacks certain functionalities, making it more challenging to use than its Windows version. 

Form controls and ActiveX 

Primary difference: Form creation and customization in Excel for Windows.  

Form Controls and ActiveX are alternative form controls (or tools used to create forms) that are only compatible with the Windows OS, so they are not available or supported in Excel for Mac.  

When designing User Forms with Form Controls or ActiveX in Excel for Mac, for instance, the screen resolution discrepancy between Mac (96 dpi) and Windows (72 dpi) can result in reduced readability. This is due to User Forms appearing at only 75% of their size on the Mac. Moreover, Mac UserForms using frames containing list boxes do not always function as expected, with instances of frames changing to a white background and losing the frame surround. 

The most effective approach for Mac users is to create User Forms in Excel for Windows and verify that they appear as expected on a Mac. The issue of column widths in multi-column list boxes not resizing when constructing User Forms in Excel for Mac can be remedied with code. 

Data connectivity options 

Primary difference: the number of options available in Windows Excel.  

Data connectivity is practically essential to a solid Excel user experience. However, Excel for Mac has certain limitations in terms of the data formats it can read and receive data from. Excel for Mac offers a limited range of data connections in comparison to Excel for Windows; Excel for Mac only offers ODBC SQL, HTML, Text, and Database (Microsoft Query). 

On the other hand, Excel for Windows offers a wide range of data connectivity options, including web, tables/ranges, Access, ODBC SQL, PDF, JSON, XML, and more. Excel for Windows PC can import data from a wide variety of file formats, including PDF, JSON, XML, and many more, which are not supported by Excel for Mac. 

Customization and user interface 

Primary difference: The ability to fully personalize the UI in Excel for Windows.  

Windows offers more customization options and enhanced visuals compared to Mac. Windows provides a range of customization options, including the ability to adjust colors and fonts, as well as more advanced features. 

Mac users, on the other hand, are limited to the default pre-defined options for colors and fonts in Excel for Mac. This means that Windows users can enjoy a more personalized and visually appealing experience when using Excel, while Mac users have fewer customization options and fewer advanced features. 

Advanced features and compatibility 

Primary difference: certain valuable features are only available in the Windows version of Excel. 

Excel for Windows boasts advanced features such as forecasting, multi-item clipboard, and live preview, none of which are available in Excel for Mac. The forecasting feature in Excel for Windows offers a way to forecast seasonal changes and predict future values based on confidence factors. 

The multi-item clipboard allows users to copy and paste multiple items simultaneously, while the Live Preview feature enables users to preview the effect of a change or edit on their work prior to implementing it. 

These advanced features greatly enhance the user experience and functionality of Windows Excel, making the Windows version preferable for more advanced or power users. 

Best of both worlds: use Excel for Windows on Mac with Parallels Desktop 

hardware of choice.  Heavy Excel users or power users may find that the Windows version has more to offer them — it has more features, better support from Microsoft, and stronger options for VBA coding. However, if you only use the basic capabilities of Excel, the Mac version could be enough. 

But what if you didn’t have to choose? After all, you’ve probably already established yourself as a Windows or Mac user, and it’s unlikely that you are going to switch from your preferred operating system or hardware just to use one program.  

Which is why with Parallels Desktop, you don’t have to choose! There’s no need to give up your preferred OS and aesthetics to enjoy the superior features and functionality of Excel on Windows.  

Parallels Desktop allows you to run the Windows version of Excel right on your Mac, marrying the comprehensive functionality of Windows Excel with the smooth, intuitive Mac experience.  

You get the full suite of Excel for Windows features on a Mac, which ensures you can make the most of Excel’s capabilities without needing to switch to a PC. It’s a win-win situation: you get to stay in your beloved Mac environment while benefiting from the power-packed Windows Excel experience. 

Curious? Try Parallels Desktop today! 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Excel different on Mac than Excel on Windows? 

Generally, the more recent versions of Excel work the same way on Windows and Mac, so most users won’t find any major differences. However, experienced Excel users or those who require more advanced functionality might come across some differences or distinguishing characteristics. 

As such, it is important to be aware of the minor discrepancies between the two platforms when working with Excel. 

Why does Excel not work well on Mac? 

 Excel does not work poorly on a Mac; however, the Windows version does offer features and capabilities that the Mac version does not.  

What are some key differences between Excel for Mac and Excel for Windows? 

There are some notable differences between these versions. Power Pivot, VBA capabilities, Form Controls and Active X, and data connectivity options along with more advanced features like forecasting, multi-item clip boarding, and live previews are among the elements which may differ between Mac and Windows platforms. 

Interested in getting the best of both the Mac and Windows worlds when using Excel? Try Parallels Desktop for yourself!  

The post Microsoft Excel on Mac versus Excel on Windows appeared first on Parallels Blog.

If you are familiar with both the Mac and Windows versions of Outlook, have you ever wished you could get all the benefits of the Windows app in macOS? 

Because yes, you are definitely missing out. 

While Microsoft Outlook is similar on both a Mac and a PC, there’s a wealth of functionality exclusive to Windows users. For instance, if you’ve used any Microsoft Office apps on your Mac and been less than thrilled, you already know there are some features that either aren’t available or do not perform as expected based on your experience using a PC. And while you may simply get used to the difference, you just don’t have to settle.  

In this article, I’ll cover the key differences between Outlook 365 on Mac and Windows, focusing specifically on components of Mail, Calendar, and People.  

We’re not just going to highlight these differences, however, but also offer a solution for Mac users who might feel a tinge of FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). 

But don’t fret, Mac aficionados.  

I’m not suggesting a switch to a different operating system. Instead, I’ll show you how to get the best of both worlds with Parallels Desktop.  

It allows you to enjoy the most desirable features of the Windows version of Outlook 365 and enables it to run smoothly on your Mac. This means you can access all those extra features and still stick to your preferred operating system.  

Let’s delve into the details and explore how you can enhance your Outlook 365 experience with the power of Parallels Desktop. 

Get your free trial today!  

Outlook for Mac vs. Windows 

Outlook Mail 

Primary difference: Number of features  

Let’s explore the key differences between Outlook 365 on Mac and Windows, starting with the feature that most of us use every day: Mail.  

Both versions of Microsoft Outlook are equipped with powerful tools for managing your email, but the Windows version is packed with extra features that can take your productivity to the next level. 

The Windows version of Outlook offers advanced search options, sophisticated categorization, and more robust spam filtering, among other features.  

These tools are designed to make your email management more efficient and streamlined.  

On the other hand, while the Mac version of Outlook does an excellent job in many respects, it doesn’t quite measure up to the feature-rich Windows version. Aside from the Conversation view and (online) archive, the Mac version is a very stripped-down version of its Windows counterpart. 

The table below, which comes straight from the source, delves into the specifics of these features and see how they can truly transform your email experience. 

Source: Microsoft.com 

Outlook Calendar 

Primary difference: collaborative capabilities  

Next up on our exploration of features in Outlook 365 is the Calendar. This essential tool is critical for managing your days, planning meetings, and keeping track of important events, and both the Mac and Windows versions offer comprehensive calendar management capabilities. However, there are a few key areas where the Mac version falls short, and these differences can significantly impact your productivity depending on how you prefer to use your Calendar. 

The Windows version of Microsoft Outlook offers the ability to share availability (free/busy) information, calendars, or contacts with an external user. It’s critical for seamless coordination with colleagues, clients, or partners who are outside of your organization because it simplifies scheduling and enhances transparency, making it easier to plan meetings or schedule collaborative tasks and projects. 

Another feature missing in the Mac version of Outlook is the integration with SharePoint calendars and lists. SharePoint, another product in the Microsoft Office suite, allows you to create websites for document sharing and collaboration, making it a powerful tool for team coordination. The ability to integrate SharePoint calendars and lists directly into your Outlook calendar (which is possible in the Windows version), creates a more streamlined workflow, enabling you to manage all your tasks and schedules in one place. 

Source: Microsoft.com 

Outlook Contacts 

Primary difference: mass distribution and synchronization  

Our exploration of Outlook 365’s features wouldn’t be complete without examining Contacts, the contact management system built into Outlook that helps maintain and manage your network of professional and personal connections. Although the Mac and Windows versions of Outlook both provide strong support in this regard, the Windows version is a more robust offering.  

For instance, the Windows version lets users manage Exchange Server distribution lists. This feature is vital for anyone that regularly sends emails to large groups of recipients, as it allows you to easily create, modify, and manage these lists directly within Outlook. 

Additionally, the Windows version of Outlook supports synchronization of contact groups with Microsoft Exchange. This feature ensures that your contact groups are consistently updated across all your devices connected to Exchange, providing a seamless experience when you need to email groups of contacts. 

Source: Microsoft.com 

Outlook Tasks 

Primary difference: Assigning tasks to others  

Having a well-organized task system is vital for maintaining productivity and staying on top of your responsibilities and to-do list. While both the Mac and Windows versions of Outlook offer task management tools, there are a couple of valuable features exclusive to the Windows version. 

One of these is the ability to assign tasks to other users. This feature is particularly valuable in a collaborative setting since it enables the clear delegation of tasks, ensuring that everyone on the team is aware of their role and responsibilities. 

Additionally, the Windows version includes ‘To-do’ items. This feature provides an efficient way to create, view, and manage a list of tasks that you personally need to complete, helping you stay organized and focused. More importantly, this To-Do list synchronizes across the entire 365 environment, making it easier to keep track of everything across multiple devices. 

Source: Microsoft.com 

Supported protocols 

Primary difference: EAS and HTTP support  

Next, let’s turn our attention to an often overlooked but absolutely essential aspect of email management: protocols. Protocols dictate how data is sent and received, and the type of protocol used can impact the functionality of your email client. For Outlook 365, the Mac version does not support two key protocols that are available in the Windows version: Exchange ActiveSync (EAS) and the ability to connect to Exchange over HTTP. 

EAS is a protocol designed for the synchronization of email, contacts, calendar, tasks, and more between a server and a mobile device. The lack of EAS support in the Mac version can limit your ability to sync your Outlook data across devices. 

Connecting to Exchange over HTTP is a method that allows you to access your Exchange server remotely, providing flexibility and convenience, especially for those who often work away from the office. Both HTTP and EAS are not available on the Mac version of Outlook. 

Source: Microsoft.com 

Plug-ins 

Primary difference: customization capabilities  

While the Mac version of Outlook 365 is intuitive and user-friendly, it does fall short in certain areas compared to the Windows version. One of these areas is the plug-in ecosystem and the associated customization options. The Windows version of Outlook supports a more extensive range of plug-ins, therefore allowing for a more customizable and feature-rich user experience. 

In conclusion, using Windows applications on a Mac is often perfectly fine for most use-cases, especially if you’re keeping it somewhat basic. However, there are some key differences between the two and unsurprisingly, the Windows version is more feature-rich and has more collaborative and customization capabilities. But you don’t necessarily need to choose… 

The best of both worlds: Windows’ Outlook on Mac with Parallels Desktop 

As you can see, there are some significant differences between using Microsoft Outlook on a Mac and on a Windows machine. However, don’t let these differences force you to juggle multiple devices and operating environments to use your preferred applications, OS, and hardware for each task or purpose. If you’re a Mac user who wants to harness the full power of Outlook 365 without switching operating systems, there’s an ideal solution: Parallels Desktop for Mac. 

Parallels Desktop for Mac enables you to run the Windows version of Outlook on your Mac, giving you access to the comprehensive feature set that the Windows version offers – all without rebooting. In fact, with Coherence mode, you can run Windows apps on your Mac as though they were native Mac applications, making it perhaps the ideal solution. 

Whether you’re using an Intel or an Apple M-series Mac, Parallels Desktop for Mac makes it impressively easy and efficient to get the best of both Mac and Windows. Learn more about how Parallels Desktop for Mac can enhance your Outlook 365 experience here. 

The post Office 365’s Outlook on MacOS vs. Outlook on Windows appeared first on Parallels Blog.

On June 5th, 2023, Apple introduced the M2 Ultra chip, the “Apple Vision Pro” AR headset, as well as its macOS 14 Sonoma. Apple’s M2 Ultra chip is nothing short of a game-changer. Offering unparalleled performance and energy efficiency, this revolutionary chip has the world buzzing.  

But what about Windows users?  

Fear not — Parallels Desktop elegantly bridges the gap, seamlessly enabling you to run Windows 11 on the mighty new M2 Ultra Macs. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the impressive M2 Ultra chip, Apple’s custom silicon advantage, and how Parallels Desktop brings the best of both worlds to Windows users looking to run their Windows on M2 Ultra Macs.  

Let the journey begin! 

TL, DR 

• Apple’s M Series chips have evolved to the powerful M2 Ultra chip, revolutionizing computing performance and power efficiency. 

• Microsoft has endorsed Parallels Desktop for its compatibility with Arm versions of Windows 11 Pro & Enterprise on Macs running Apple’s custom silicon technology. 

• Parallels Desktop provides an efficient and unified user experience when running macOS and Windows applications via Coherence mode on an M2 Mac. 

Interested in seeing how Parallels Desktop bridges the gap for Windows 11 users on the M2 Ultra chip?? Download your free trial of Parallels Desktop for Mac now. 

The evolution of Apple’s M Series chips

Apple’s journey into custom silicon began with the groundbreaking M1 chip, which redefined the boundaries of performance and power efficiency on Macs.  

The M1 chip was followed by the M1 Pro and M1 Max, offering significant improvements in graphics and processing capabilities. 

However, Apple didn’t stop there.  

Enter the M2 Ultra chip — the pinnacle of Apple’s custom silicon lineup. 

The M2 Ultra Chip explained  

The M2 Ultra chip, unveiled alongside the Mac Studio and Mac Pro, is a powerhouse in its own right.  

It comprises two M2 Max chips connected by Apple’s UltraFusion technology, resulting in a CPU with 24 cores and a GPU with 60 or 76 cores. This incredible chip offers enhanced performance and increased power efficiency compared to other chips in Apple’s custom silicon selection. 

But what does this mean for Windows users?  

With the ARM version of Windows 11, M1 and M2 Mac users can run Windows applications by leveraging a virtual machine like Parallels Desktop.  

Users have reported blazing-fast performance when running Windows 11 on an M1 or M2 Mac with Parallels. 

Apple’s custom silicon improves security graphics, battery life, and more

Apple’s custom silicon technology is a processor architecture specifically designed to optimize performance for Apple’s operating systems and applications. This custom approach has led to numerous benefits, including seamless integration with software, advanced security, high-performance graphics, and increased battery life and energy efficiency. 

The result is a significant improvement in performance and power efficiency for Apple’s custom silicon powered devices.  

So, whether you’re working on resource-intensive tasks or enjoying your favorite entertainment, you can expect the M1 and M2 chips to deliver a smooth and responsive experience. 

For Windows users, this custom silicon advantage means that running a Windows virtual machine or Arm native Windows apps on a M1 or M2 Mac can be a seamless and efficient experience, with the help of virtual machine solutions like Parallels Desktop. 

Parallels Desktop gives M2 Mac users the ability to run Windows 11

Parallels Desktop has long been a popular choice for Mac users looking to run other operating systems on their devices.  

With the introduction of Apple’s M2 Ultra chip, Parallels Desktop has stepped up to the challenge, offering users the ability to run Windows 11 on M2 Macs. 

Parallels Desktop is recognized by Microsoft as the authorized solution for Arm versions of Windows 11   

On February 16th, 2023, Microsoft officially recognized Parallels Desktop as an authorized solution for running Arm versions of Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise installed in a virtual machine with Parallels Desktop on a Mac with Apple silicon (i.e., M-series chips).  

Power users can confidently run Windows 11 on their M2 Macs with the peace of mind that comes from Microsoft’s endorsement. 

There are limitations to running Windows 11 via Parallels Desktop. 

DirectX 12 is not supported, which is a feature used by many modern AAA games.  

3D acceleration is enabled for both DirectX 11.1 and OpenGL 3.3. It can enhance the performance of graphics-intensive applications. 

Parallels Desktop is best suited for productivity tasks, rather GPU-intensive activities. 

Parallels is the only third-party solution with this recognition from Microsoft.. Parallels Desktop is also received the official Arm® SystemReady.

Parallels Desktop for M2 Macs

While there may be some limitations to the compatibility, Parallels Desktop also offers features like Coherence Mode, which allows users to run virtual machine applications alongside Mac Applications, providing a streamlined and rich experience.

How easy is it to install Windows on a M1 or M2 (Ultra) Mac using Parallels Desktop?

If you are installing Windows on an M1 or M2 (Ultra) Mac using Parallels Desktop, follow these three steps: 

1. Download the Parallels Desktop installer on your Mac. 

2. Mount the image and follow the installation prompts to download and install Windows 11 with Parallels Desktop. 

3. Activate your Windows 11 virtual machine by purchasing a product key directly from Microsoft via the Microsoft store. 

Does Boot Camp work on M1 or M2 Macs?  

Unfortunately, Boot Camp does not work on M1 or M2 Macs. You must have an Intel processor (Intel based Macs) in order to use Boot Camp; Apple Silicon Macs are incompatible with this application. As a result, users with an M1 or M2 Mac should consider virtualization solutions such as Parallels Desktop if they wish to run Windows software on their devices. 

What is the difference between Intel processors and M1 or M2-based Macs? 

Intel chips use processors manufactured by Intel, a third-party company, while M1 and M2-based Macs use Apple’s own custom silicon processors. It allows only for you to run Intel-only Windows software. 

Parallels Desktop bridges the gap between Windows and Apple’s M2 Ultra chip

Parallels Desktop bridges the gap between Windows and Apple’s M2 Ultra chip, providing users with the best of both worlds.  

Windows users can now harness the unparalleled performance and energy efficiency of the M2 Ultra chip while accessing their favorite Windows software, thanks to Parallels Desktop’s seamless integration. 

So, whether you’re a long-time Windows user or simply looking to expand your computing horizons, Apple’s M2 Ultra chip and Parallels Desktop provide a winning combination that’s sure to exceed your expectations. 

Try Parallels Desktop yourself here. 

*As of the time of this blog post, the Parallels team has yet to get their M2 Ultra-powered Mac and test memory allocation for virtual machines there. Even if there are issues, the Parallels team’s intention is to address them to provide users with the ability to create powerful virtual machines. 

The post Apple announces M2 Ultra Chip at WWDC23: Parallels Desktop bridges the gap for Windows Users appeared first on Parallels Blog.

It is now listed as an authorized solution with Microsoft Support, so you can feel confident in your own set-up as well as supporting users that need to host Arm versions of Windows 11 applications in a virtualized environment on Mac with Apple silicon. 

What does this mean for you? 

IT leaders can now enable their users to run Windows 11 on Arm with Parallels Desktop for Mac, with the assurance that Microsoft has authorized this solution.   

Whether user devices are owned and managed by the employee/contractor or the organization’s IT department, Parallels Desktop bridges the technology gap between the two operating systems by enabling a virtualized environment capable of running Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise editions as a guest operating system on Mac with Apple silicon.  

Parallels Desktop is the first solution to be authorized and listed by Microsoft, so IT leaders can feel confident in supporting users that need to host Arm versions of Windows 11 applications in a virtualized environment on Mac with Apple silicon.  

Ready to get started? Try Parallels Desktop for Mac now. 

User perspective + challenges 

Mac users are passionate about their devices, but often become frustrated when they need to access applications that are only available or perform best on Windows operating systems  

For example, how can a field engineer that prefers a Mac access a Windows-based application such as AutoCAD, Matlab, ArcGIS, or SolidWorks? Or perhaps power users of Excel or PowerPoint may prefer the Windows versions as well.  

In many environments, this means that a Windows device is required as the primary device, regardless of user preference.   

Another option is getting a second laptop. Even though laptops are small and lightweight, carrying two laptops and synchronizing files is an unnecessary hassle.   

Either way, users are not content and potentially less productive, but organizations still need to find a way for their teams to access niche applications. 

Developing in a Windows environment, on a Mac 

Similarly, how can application developers utilize their Mac devices to access a locally installed Windows 11 guest operating system for development work?   

Whether the developer is a contractor or an employee, they need to install tools such as Visual Studio or Notepad++ and/or create and test Windows code in a segregated environment.   

Especially within small enterprises, a centralized virtual machine or device may add complexity to development efforts.   

A much better alternative is to allow the user to choose their favored device type, e.g., a Mac, and enable Windows-based applications to run in a virtualized environment with Parallels Desktop.  

After installation, the Windows 11 operating system can be run in a virtualized environment by the user on a dedicated resource.  

This way both the host and guest can function independently without relying on each other, and files and system resources can be shared between macOS and Windows.   

Then, the desired Windows application(s) and tools can be installed on Windows 11, providing the best of both worlds for the end user.  

H2: Windows 11 licensing  

Licensing the Windows 11 operating system that runs on the Mac device is straightforward.   

The same volume licensing system that addresses enterprise licensing, such as Key Management Services (KMS), can be used to provide Pro or Enterprise licenses to the Windows 11 guest operating system.  

Frequently asked questions 

1. What will change for users of Parallels Desktop for Mac?

New users must download and install the latest version of Parallels Desktop to get started running Arm versions of Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise.  

Existing Parallels Desktop users can continue to use Windows without making changes to their current set-up on their devices. However, if you are not using one of the supported editions of Windows, we recommend upgrading to Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise. 

2. Do I have to purchase a new version of Parallels Desktop to access the version certified by Microsoft? 

If you run Parallels Desktop 17 or a later version, you can continue to use Parallels Desktop on Mac with Apple silicon or Apple M-series Mac with Apple silicon. 

3. Do existing users have to upgrade their Parallels Desktop SKU? 

All Parallels Desktop SKUs (Standard, Pro, Business) are supported by Parallels for users to run Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise with Apple Silicon. 

4.Do Parallels Desktop users have to purchase new Windows product keys? 

You will be able to bring your own Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise product keys if they have a key that can be used to activate Windows.  

5. How can I purchase Windows product keys if I don’t have one? 

Organizations can purchase Windows 11 through their normal Windows procurement process. Individuals can buy Windows 11 Pro through the Microsoft site.  

6.I have a working version of Parallels Desktop with Windows 11, can I continue to use it? 

Existing Parallels Desktop users can continue to use Windows without changing their current set-up on their devices. However, if you are not using one of the compatible editions, we recommend upgrading to Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise. 

7. Can I install other Windows editions? 

We recommend installing Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise. 

8. How can I get Windows for my Mac with Apple silicon now? 

End users will be able to download and install Windows 11 Pro in two simple steps with Parallels Desktop for Mac. 

IT administrators and organizations deploying Windows Enterprise will require a volume license agreement and will be able to download Windows from Microsoft. You can download this from the Microsoft 365 admin center.  

9. Are there known issues or limitations with Parallels Desktop used with Windows 11 Pro or Enterprise on Mac with Apple silicon? 

Some Windows 11 features may not be available or fully functional when running Windows 11 in a virtualized environment. Access our knowledge base to learn more. 

Ready to jump right in? Learn more about our Microsoft certification and get your free trial of Parallels Desktop!  

Recap: Parallels Desktop is the only Microsoft-authorized solution for running Windows on Mac 

The Parallels Desktop team is proud to be the only solution certified by Microsoft to run Windows on Mac, so you can be confident in choosing it for your own use as well as advising your organization, customers, or teams to use Parallels Desktop. 

Parallels Desktop empowers you with:  

• Security compliance with virtual TPM chips and Secure Boot technologies. 
• Volume license key or key-free activation in a corporate environment with Single Sign-On support and integration with leading identity providers such as Azure, Okta, and Ping Identity, among others.  
• Centralized user and license administration via the Parallels MyAccount web app. 
• The ability to mass-deploy Parallels Desktop using solutions like Apple Remote Desktop, Jamf, Microsoft Intune, and Munki.  
• The ability to provision a corporate Windows image to selected users within the organization. 
• Premium 24/7 tech support. 

The post The Ultimate Solution: Windows 11 in a virtual machine + Parallels Desktop + Mac Computers with Apple silicon appeared first on Parallels Blog.

Earlier versions of Parallels Desktop could connect to a game controller, but the process could be a bit tricky. When developing Parallels Desktop 18, the Parallels product team worked closely with Apple to make considerable enhancements in this area. 

The result? A smooth, simple process: Just connect the game controller to your Mac computer when running Windows in Parallels Desktop and it will automatically connect. 

See for yourself how easy it is: 

Don’t have Parallels Desktop 18 yet? Download a free trial today! 

NOTE: This blog post is a part of a series on new and improved features in Parallels Desktop 18. Stay tuned for more! 

The post Improved Connectivity for Game Controllers in Parallels Desktop 18 appeared first on Parallels Blog.

In recognition of World Backup Day, this post shows you how best to back up the Windows installation on your Mac in Parallels® Desktop. 

Yes, you really should back up! 

A few years ago, I had a Windows installation on my iMac that would no longer boot. In addition, I could not copy the Parallels Desktop file that contained this Windows installation (the “.pvm” file). This quickly led to the conclusion that at least a portion of the hard drive on my iMac had failed. The Apple Tech Support team I contacted was great, but nothing we tried fixed the issue, so Apple authorized a no-cost-to-me hard drive replacement. I was able to backup everything on the disk, except the Parallels Desktop file that contained Windows. If I had made a backup earlier before the drive failed, I would have lost very little. 

This blog post is my attempt to help you avoid the data loss I had. 

But I Have Time Machine (or iCloud Drive), So I Don’t Need to Do This, Right? 

I run Time Machine also, and it is great, and it has saved me on a number of occasions. However, Time Machine is not a good choice to backup Windows on your Mac. Time Machine works by checking every hour for files that have changed on your Mac, and then backs them up. Anytime you start up or use Windows on your Mac, the .pvm file will change. The change might be really small, but Time Machine cannot see that. So, Time Machine backs up the entire .pvm file, which is usually more than 10GB, and can be hundreds of GBs. If this gigantic file is backed up once every hour, you will quickly fill up the Time Machine drive. For the same reason, backing up Windows to iCloud Drive is a bad idea. 

What You Need 

The steps below will work for any version of Windows. (Or, for that matter, any version of Linux, macOS, or any other OS that you have installed in Parallels Desktop on your Mac.) All you need is a high-capacity, speedy external drive attached to your Mac. For my home setup, I have a 10TB, external USB drive which I purchased new for about $175 USD. You will need to have this external drive connected to your Mac, and it should be visible on the Mac desktop. 

Only 3 Steps Needed to Back Up Windows in Parallels Desktop 

1. Shut down Windows 

2. Reclaim any extra space 

3. Manually copy the .pvm file to the external drive 

Notes: 

1. You must really shut down Windows. Not suspend Windows, not just close the Parallels Desktop window where Windows is running, but manually shut down Windows. Step 2 requires that Windows has shut down. 

2. The file that Parallels Desktop stores Windows, all your Windows applications, your Windows configuration setting, and (perhaps) any files you have created in Windows is called a Mac .pvm file. (Figure 1 shows all my .pvm files, though you may only have one .pvm file.) These pvm files grow as you install new Windows apps and create new files. Usually, but not always, these pvm files shrink when you delete apps and files. However, over time there can be some “empty” space that remains in the file. You should remove this by using the “Reclaim…” button shown in Figure 2. In that figure, this “empty” space is over 40GB, so it is definitely worth reclaiming this before you go on to the next step. 

3. Just manually copy this pvm file to the external drive. For me, copying a 120GB pvm file to my external drive takes about 9 minutes. 

I recommend that you also add a recurring item to your calendar, reminding you to back up Windows. You can do this once or twice a month, depending on how much work you are willing to lose in case of hardware failure, or other problems. 

Restoring Windows From a Backup 

Suppose calamity strikes, and you have to restore your backup of Windows. No problem! Just copy the backup pvm file back to the same folder on your Mac where it was located when you backed it up. You will lose whatever work you have done since you made the backup, but this will usually be a lot smaller loss than if you had never backed up at all. 

I hope this helps you evade the big data loss that I experienced when my hard drive failed. Let us know your experience and tips in the Forums or on Facebook and Twitter channels. 

The post Tips for Backing up Windows in Parallels Desktop for Mac appeared first on Parallels Blog.

Video 1 shows you what Universal Control does and how easy it is to enable it. Basically, Universal Control gives you the ability to use a single mouse and keyboard with several nearby Macs and iPads that are all signed into the same iCloud account.  

Several others have remarked that Universal Control seems “magical” in how seamless the transition from one Apple device to another is. Achieving this feeling of seamless magic takes a great deal of behind-the-scenes work and I suspect this is the main source of the delay in releasing Universal Control. I, for one, am glad that Apple took the time to work on all the details of this feature before releasing it. 

I have tested Universal Control with Windows 11 on ARM running in Parallels® Desktop 17.1.1 and it appears to work just fine, see figure 1. I could drag files from my iPad Pro to the Windows 11 desktop or to a Windows app, and I could drag files from Windows 11 to my iPad Pro.  

I didn’t show it in the video, but Universal Control also works between several Macs. In Figure 2, you can see that I have set up Universal Control between an iPad Pro, an M1 MacBook Pro, and an Intel MacBook Pro. All these devices are signed into my iCloud account. 

Now you might think Universal Control seems a bit like Sidecar, a feature released with macOS Catalina in 2019. While there is some visual similarity, there is one big difference: in Universal Control, it is iPadOS you are interacting with on the iPad; in Sidecar, you are interacting with macOS on the iPad screen. More details comparing Universal Control and Sidecar are described in this excellent MacRumors article, Universal Control vs. Sidecar: What’s the Difference? 

Stay tuned for future blog posts showing how Parallels Desktop will make use of other new macOS/iPadOS features as they are released by Apple. 

Download the free, full-featured 14-day trial of Parallels Desktop and see for yourself. Let us know about your experience on Facebook or Twitter.

Also, you can download PDF Expert here: iOS and Mac.

The post Of Course, Universal Control Works With Parallels Desktop for Mac appeared first on Parallels Blog.