Parallels sends 50 new features to beta testers

Parallels has announced that its private beta community has begun testing the first Release Candidate of the next version of its eponymous virtualisation software, which enables Macs to run Windows within OS X.

Parallels Desktop 3.0 contains over 50 new features, including SmartSelect, a cross-platform file and application integration feature, support for DirectX and OpenGL 3D graphics and easy backup and restore via Snapshots.

SmartSelect lets users open any file from Windows or OS X with any program from either OS. Designed to work with Coherence, the Parallels feature that lets Windows applications run like native Mac applications, SmartSelect enables users to assign files to any application, setting the relationship 'on the fly' or as a default. Coherence itself has been enhanced with interface tweaks and support for shared folders.

Hardware compatibility improvements include expanded support for USB 2.0 devices, support for shared printers and 'significant' enhancements for audio quality and


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overall performance.

The new version also includes increased data protection measures that in the event of a problem enable a quick return to a clean virtual machine (VM). SnapShots allow VMs to be stored and backed up. VMs can also be made read-only. The Security Manager lets the user control the levels of cross-platform integration and isolation.

'The release of Desktop for Mac 3.0 represents another opportunity to help computer users get the best of all operating systems on a single, seamless desktop,' said Benjamin Rudolph, director of Corporate Communications, Parallels. 'We look forward to feedback on the important new features like SmartSelect, 3D graphics, and Snapshots as we prepare for the full launch very soon.'

The final release of Parallels Desktop for Mac 3.0 is expected within the next few weeks. The new features, improvements and bug fixes are listed at parallels.com/en/products/desktop/upgrade.

The standard retail price of Parallels Desktop for Mac 3.0 for new users will be $79.99, but current users will be able to upgrade to the new product from any earlier version for only $49.99. But from now through until the launch of the final version, however, Parallels is accepting pre-orders for the upgrade at $39.99.