Parallels today announced the release of Parallels Desktop 26 for Mac bringing new features and performance improvements to the popular virtualization software. The new version brings full support for Apple’s upcoming macOS Tahoe 26 operating system and full compatibility with Windows 11 25H2.
Parallels version number jumped from version 20 to version 26, adopting the same numbering convention Apple adopted for all of its operating systems this year. This will make it easier to recognize when you have the latest version of Parallels Desktop, as well as recognizing the version of macOS it is designed for.
Windows VMs can now also view the actual available disk space on the Mac host, providing better control over storage, helping to prevent freezes, slowdowns, and crashes during large installations or disk-heavy operations.
Business and IT teams will find new centralized controls via the Parallels Desktop Enterprise Management Portal, allowing IT administrators to control and enforce settings like shared folders, USB access, clipboard sharing, network modes, and more across all users.
IT administrators will also be able to monitor and manage Windows OS updates inside VMs using Jamf Pro or other mobile device management (MDM) platforms.
This latest update also includes support for Apple Intelligence’s Writing Tools, x86 emulation preview to support legacy apps, OBS Camera integration for enhanced video workflows, and support for applications like Dragon Medical One to meet specialized industry needs.
The Parallels Desktop update is available as a free download for subscribers. New users can score 35% off on annual subscriptions, bringing the price of Parallels Desktop Standard Edition down to $64.99 (from $99.99), Parallels Desktop Pro Edition to $77.99 (from $119.99), and Parallels Desktop Business Edition to $97.49 (from $149.99). Parallels Desktop Standard Edition can also be purchased as a perpetual license for $219.99, or $53.99 if you’re upgrading from an older version. Discounted pricing is also available for students.
For more information, to download a free trial, or to make a purchase, visit the Parallels website.
