Parallels has announced a significant update to Parallels RAS (Remote Application Server), introducing a Custom Provider Framework that enables organisations to integrate any hypervisor or cloud platform into their environments. The framework uses a scripting language-agnostic connector model supporting PowerShell, Python and similar languages. The update also expands support for Nutanix, Microsoft Azure and Azure Virtual Desktop, whilst strengthening hybrid and multi-cloud deployment options. The framework enables automated provisioning, VM lifecycle management and infrastructure orchestration across diverse platforms including KVM, Xen-based environments and edge deployments. Additional enhancements include Trusted Launch support for Azure, enhanced browser-based experiences for the RAS Web Client, and improved security controls. Parallels RAS version 21.2 is available immediately, with a free trial offered at parallels.com/ras.

Parallels RAS expands Virtual Desktop flexibility with new hypervisor-agnostic Custom Provider Framework. Latest Parallels RAS release delivers expanded Nutanix, Azure, and Azure Virtual Desktop capabilities, greater infrastructure flexibility, and improved browser-based user experiences AUSTIN, Texas, June 23, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) - Parallels, a leading global provider in virtualization and end-user computing (EUC) solutions, today announced a significant update to Parallels RAS (Remote Application Server), introducing a new Custom Provider Framework that enables organizations to integrate their hypervisor or cloud platform of choice into their Parallels RAS environments. The release also expands Nutanix, Microsoft Azure, and Azure Virtual Desktop support, strengthens hybrid and multi-cloud deployment options, and enhances browser-based experiences for secure application and desktop delivery. "Organizations today operate across increasingly diverse virtualization and cloud environments, yet many virtual desktop solutions remain limited to a narrow set of supported hypervisors," said Elena Koryakina, Chief Product and Technology Officer at Parallels. "With the introduction of the Custom Provider Framework, Parallels RAS delivers a truly flexible, hypervisor-agnostic approach that empowers customers and partners to integrate a wide range of infrastructure platforms while maintaining centralized management, automation, and secure application delivery." The new Custom Provider Framework extends Parallels RAS's hypervisor-agnostic approach beyond application and desktop delivery into automated provisioning, VM lifecycle management, and infrastructure orchestration. This enables organizations to support hybrid, multi-cloud, edge, and private cloud deployments through a consistent management experience. The framework provides integration capabilities for a broad range of virtualization and cloud environments, including platforms such as KVM, Xen-based environments, edge deployments, and custom cloud APIs. These capabilities complement existing native integrations and extend Parallels RAS support into emerging and specialized infrastructure environments. "Organizations are increasingly looking for digital workspace platforms that can adapt to diverse infrastructure strategies without adding operational rigidity," said Filippo Vanara, Research Manager, Worldwide Enterprise Client Computing Platforms at IDC. "As IT teams balance hybrid, on-premises, cloud, and regional infrastructure requirements alongside evolving compliance, sovereignty, and operational resiliency priorities, infrastructure flexibility is becoming an increasingly important consideration." A hypervisor-agnostic approach to modern application and desktop delivery At the core of the framework is a scripting language-agnostic connector model that acts as a bridge between Parallels RAS and the target infrastructure platform. Organizations and partners can create lightweight integrations using PowerShell, Python, or similar scripting languages that communicate with Parallels RAS through a standardized JSON protocol. The framework also extends Parallels RAS provisioning capabilities to third-party platforms through template-based provisioning, automated cloning, VM lifecycle management, and extensible orchestration workflows. By reducing reliance on native hypervisor integrations, the Custom Provider Framework allows organizations to evolve their infrastructure strategy without sacrificing automation, scalability, or operational consistency. The framework helps customers integrate Parallels RAS into existing technology stacks with minimal operational overhead, accelerating time-to-value across diverse environments while enabling new deployment opportunities for managed service providers, sovereign cloud environments, regional hypervisors, and edge computing deployments. In addition to the Custom Provider Framework, the latest version of Parallels RAS introduces expanded platform integrations, enhanced security controls, and user experience improvements designed that simplify administration and strengthen secure access to applications and desktops. New capabilities in the latest release include: Discover more Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence Cloud Computing Cloud Storage * Support for Nutanix Prism Central using native template integration to improve single-console administration for multi-cluster and hybrid cloud management * Trusted Launch support for Microsoft Azure and Azure Virtual Desktop providers, including Secure Boot and virtual TPM capabilities for enhanced workload protection * Azure Availability Zone support for improved workload placement and deployment flexibility * Local file access and simultaneous multi-file transfer support for the RAS Web Client to improve browser-based productivity and Chromebook experiences * Extended Parallels Client capabilities across multiple platforms, including cross-platform Web + Credentials authentication (macOS, Linux, Android, iOS), expanded clipboard redirection with image support for macOS, and extended USB filtering support for Linux and IGEL OS clients, alongside single sign-on capabilities for IGEL OS 12. * Enhanced Gateway access control, restricting specific logon methods, API usage control, and client auto-logout capabilities for stronger security in shared and kiosk-style environments The latest release of Parallels RAS version 21.2 is available immediately. Customers can upgrade from previous versions or explore Parallels RAS through a free trial at www.parallels.com/ras/remote-application-server/. For a full overview of what's new in Parallels RAS 21.2, please visit www.parallels.com/products/ras/whats-new/. About Parallels Parallels is a leading global provider in cross-platform and virtualization solutions that make it simple for businesses and individuals to securely access applications and data on any device, anywhere. Parallels operates two core businesses. Parallels Desktop enables individuals and organizations to run Windows applications on Mac computers, providing a seamless, native-like experience without changing devices or disrupting workflows. Parallels Workspace Solutions deliver simple, flexible, and secure virtual applications and desktops through Parallels RAS, Parallels DaaS, and Parallels Browser Isolation, offering a modern, cost-effective alternative to traditional VDI across hybrid and cloud environments. Together, Parallels helps customers reduce complexity, streamline IT operations, improve security, and deliver a seamless user experience across Windows, macOS, Linux, ChromeOS, iOS, Android, and the cloud and emerging application models. To learn more, visit www.parallels.com. (C) 2026 Parallels International GmbH. All rights reserved. Parallels is a trademark or registered trademark of Parallels International GmbH in Canada, the United States and/or elsewhere. Mac and macOS are trademarks of Apple Inc. Android and ChromeOS are trademarks of Google LLC. Windows, PowerShell, Microsoft Azure, and Azure Virtual Desktop are trademarks of Microsoft Corporation. All other company, product and service names, logos, brands and any registered or unregistered trademarks mentioned are used for identification purposes only and remain the exclusive property of their respective owners. For all notices and legal information please visit www.parallels.com/about/legal/ Ashley Ruess [email protected]

Windows Apps That Don't Run on macOS (2026): Parallels recognized as top solution for running pc-exclusive software on Mac by Expert Consumers. PR Newswire Today at 2:00am PDT NEW YORK, May 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ - Expert Consumers has released a new review examining the growing demand for Windows-exclusive software on Mac devices and identifying Parallels Desktop as a leading solution for users who need to run PC applications on macOS. The review arrives as more professionals transition to Apple silicon Macs while continuing to depend on Windows-only business software, enterprise tools, engineering applications, and legacy programs that remain unavailable on macOS. Why Windows Apps Still Matter for Mac Users According to the report, the demand for virtualization software has increased as Apple silicon systems no longer support Boot Camp. Many organizations and individual users now rely on virtualization platforms to run Windows apps on Mac without rebooting or purchasing separate hardware. Expert Consumers evaluated Parallels Desktop based on setup experience, compatibility, macOS integration, workflow functionality, and business usability. The review highlighted the platform's ability to run Windows 11 on Arm on Apple silicon Macs while supporting a broad range of Windows applications through Microsoft's built-in emulation layer. The publication noted that many professional workflows still depend on Windows-first software. Database management tools, accounting applications, enterprise productivity software, and engineering platforms continue to play an important role in corporate and technical environments. Windows Apps That Don't Run on macOS The review identified several commonly used Windows applications and platforms that either lack native macOS versions or offer limited Mac functionality. Examples include: * Microsoft Access * Microsoft Project * Power BI Desktop * SQL Server Management Studio (SSMS) * Bluebeam Revu * ArcGIS Pro * TikTok Live Studio * Revit * SolidWorks * Certain Windows-only enterprise and legacy applications Expert Consumers stated that many Mac users still require access to these applications for work, education, finance, engineering, software development, and business operations. How Parallels Desktop Helps Run Windows Apps on Mac Parallels Desktop was recognized for allowing Windows and macOS applications to run side by side on the same device. Features such as Coherence Mode allow Windows applications to appear more like Mac apps by launching directly from the Dock without displaying the full Windows desktop. The review also referenced product analytics from Parallels indicating that users run more than 200,000 different Windows applications on Apple silicon Macs through the platform. According to Expert Consumers, this broad compatibility helps users maintain productivity while continuing to use Mac hardware. Focus on Pro Edition and Business Features The review highlighted several editions of the software, including the Standard Edition, Pro Edition, and Business Edition. The Standard Edition was noted for supporting general productivity tasks and common Windows applications. The Pro Edition received particular attention for its advanced workflow capabilities aimed at developers, testers, and technical professionals. Expert Consumers cited snapshot management tools, Visual Studio Code integration, Vagrant and Packer support, GitHub Actions automation support, and natural language virtual machine control through Copilot integration in the VS Code extension. The publication also noted that the Pro Edition includes tools for simulating adverse network conditions, which may assist software testing and development workflows. For graphics-related workloads, the review stated that Parallels Desktop supports DirectX 11.1 and OpenGL 4.1. The report clarified that while many Windows applications and lighter games function well in virtual environments, some DirectX 12 and anti-cheat protected titles may still face compatibility limitations. The Business Edition was recognized for features that support deployment and management across organizations. Expert Consumers reported that businesses increasingly require solutions that allow employees to access Windows-only corporate tools while continuing to use Mac hardware in hybrid and remote work environments. Growing Demand for Windows on Mac Solutions Expert Consumers stated that virtualization remains a practical approach for users searching for how to run Windows apps on Mac, particularly as Apple silicon adoption continues across personal and enterprise computing. The publication concluded that Parallels Desktop provides a streamlined way to access Windows-exclusive software on macOS while maintaining integration with the broader Mac ecosystem. About Parallels Desktop Parallels is a global software company specializing in cross-platform solutions that enable users to run Windows, Linux, and macOS environments on a single Mac device. With nearly twenty years of development and millions of active users, Parallels supports home users, students, professionals, and enterprise teams seeking efficient cross-platform workflows. The company serves more than fifty thousand businesses with virtualization, management, and development tools built for modern computing environments. About ExpertConsumers.org: Expert Consumers delivers news and insights on consumer products and services. As an affiliate, Expert Consumers may earn commissions from sales generated using links provided. SOURCE ExpertConsumers.org This is a paid placement. For further inquiries, please contact PR Newswire directly.