Parallels Desktop 7 now available

6 September, 2011 - Paul Dixon
Lion login screen

Earlier today, Parallels released version 7 of its popular virtualization software that allows you to run Windows alongside OS X on your Mac. The latest edition has over 90 new and enhanced features, including Lion integration, improved performance, and the ability to run multiple versions of OS X.

The company also released a new version of its Parallels Mobile app which works in conjunction with the desktop version, and allows you to access OS X, Windows and all of their associated applications and files from your iPhone, iPad and iPod touch.

Parallels CEO Birger Steen:

“Parallels Desktop 7 for Mac lets you run popular apps like Windows Internet Explorer, Access, OneNote, Quicken and more, even the most demanding graphical programs, without rebooting and without compromise on speed and usability. Run Windows applications like they were made for your Mac”

“The people have spoken and Parallels listened to make the best even better. Whether you’re a business, individual or student, Parallels Desktop 7 gives you the best Windows on Mac performance plus mobility from any iPad, iPhone or iPod touch.”

Highlights of Parallels Desktop 7 include:

  • Enjoy Lion functionality including Full Screen, Launch Pad and Mission Control, for your Windows programs
  • Run multiple copies of OS X Lion or Windows and their applications on your Mac
  • Use your iPad, iPhone or iPod touch to watch and listen to Flash videos in Windows on your Mac; access and run your OS X, Windows, Chrome, Ubuntu and other operating systems, their applications and files on your Mac anytime from anywhere
  • Windows on Demand – purchase and automatically install Windows on your Mac right from Parallels Desktop 7 in the U.S. – Parallels does all the work for you!

To run Parallels Desktop 7 you need a Mac running OS X Leopard 10.5.8 or later, with an Intel Core 2 Duo, Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, or Xeon processor, at least 2GB of RAM (4GB recommended) and 700MB of disk space.

Parallels Desktop 7 is priced at £64.99 ($79.99) – you can upgrade from either 5 or 6 for £34.99 ($49.99). If you purchased Parallels 6 from an authorized reseller on or after the 1st of August 2011 you may be entitled to a free upgrade.

To find out more information, and to download a free 14 day trial vist: parallels.com

About the author

Paul Dixon is the owner of Macsessed. He lives in Lancashire in the UK where he works as a web designer. You can find him on and Twitter.