Microsoft has announced a major update for Windows 11 that will make it compatible with Apple’s M1 and M2 Macs. The update will allow Mac users to run Windows 11 on their devices through Parallels Desktop 18, a software that enables users to create and run virtual machines on their computers. This means that Mac users will be able to access all the new features and improvements of Windows 11, such as a new design, a new Windows store, support for Android apps, and better performance and multitasking.
This is a significant change from Microsoft’s previous policy of restricting the ARM versions of Windows to OEMs only. ARM-based processors are more power-efficient and faster than traditional x86 processors, and are used by Apple in its M1 and M2 chips. Microsoft had previously refused to license its ARM-based Windows 10 to third-party software like Parallels or VMware, making it impossible for Mac users to run Windows on their devices without using Boot Camp or other workarounds.
However, Microsoft has now partnered with Parallels to enable this compatibility for Windows 11. Parallels Desktop 18 is optimized for Apple’s M1 and M2 chips, and can run Windows 11 smoothly and seamlessly on Macs. Users can also switch between macOS Monterey and Windows 11 easily, as well as run Linux distributions on their devices. Parallels Desktop 18 also supports features like Touch Bar integration, Coherence mode, drag-and-drop functionality, shared folders, external displays, cameras, microphones, Bluetooth devices, Apple Pencil support, gaming controllers support, etc.
With this update, Microsoft is expanding its reach to more potential customers who use Macs but also want to use Windows applications or games. It also shows Microsoft’s willingness to embrace different platforms and architectures for its operating system. This could give Windows 11 an edge over its competitors in terms of versatility and performance.
