Parallels Desktop 26: A Big Boost for Business, Less for Home Users
▼ Summary
– Parallels Desktop 26 has been released, primarily preparing for upcoming macOS updates with minor upgrades for most users.
– The version number “26” aligns with a new scheme mirroring Apple’s OS labeling approach.
– This update includes built-in support for macOS 26 Tahoe and Windows 11 25H2, adapting to macOS’s new background process restrictions.
– It enables Windows VMs to accurately detect available Mac host disk space, preventing installation issues.
– Enterprise features include SOC 2 compliance, streamlined app deployment, and centralized management controls, though some are still upcoming.
The latest iteration of Parallels Desktop has arrived, bringing with it a clear focus on enterprise functionality rather than sweeping changes for everyday users. Parallels Desktop 26 introduces several business-oriented enhancements, though home users will find this update to be more about compatibility than groundbreaking new tools.
This version aligns with upcoming major operating system releases from both Apple and Microsoft, including support for macOS 26 Tahoe and Windows 11 25H2. Among the adjustments are improvements to how the software handles macOS 26’s stricter background process limitations, especially when operating in Coherence mode. Another practical upgrade allows Windows virtual machines to accurately detect available disk space on the host Mac, reducing unexpected storage issues during software installation.
For individual consumers, however, the feature set remains largely unchanged. The real advancements are reserved for organizational use. New capabilities include SOC 2 Type II compliance, a deployment guide for distributing individual Windows applications across Mac devices without requiring full virtual machine access, and integration with Jamf for overseeing Windows OS updates.
A significant addition for IT administrators is the forthcoming expansion of centralized management options within the Parallels Desktop Enterprise Management Portal. This will enable more detailed control over settings like USB permissions and network configurations across multiple users simultaneously, promising greater efficiency for corporate environments. It’s important to note, though, that this feature is not yet live and is tagged as “coming soon” by the development team.
Overall, Parallels Desktop 26 represents a modest annual refresh, prioritizing readiness for macOS evolution rather than introducing flashy consumer features.
(Source: Ars Technica)
