Parallels has announced the availability of Parallels Desktop 26, the latest version of the popular "run Windows on Mac" software, fully optimized for macOS Tahoe 26 and Windows 11 25H2, with visual updates that match the new aesthetic of macOS. The software includes several key enhancements, such as support for background processes like setup routines and Coherence mode, improved disk space visibility for Windows VMs, and granular policy controls for secure VMs coming soon. Parallels Desktop 26 also boasts enterprise-grade security and privacy controls, with features like SOC 2 Type II compliance, Jamf functionality for monitoring Windows OS updates, and a new guide for single-app deployment in Windows. 

Parallels Desktop 26 represents the latest iteration of the popular virtualization software for the Mac, designed to seamlessly integrate the functionality of both macOS and Windows operating systems. This cutting-edge platform has undergone significant updates for 2026, ensuring it remains optimized for the latest versions of macOS and Windows.

Optimization and Visual Enhancements

Parallels Desktop 26 is now fully compatible with macOS Tahoe 26 and Windows 11 25H2, providing users with a seamless experience across both platforms. As new versions of macOS and Windows become available, Parallels Desktop will be refreshed to ensure continued support for the latest operating systems.

The software features visual updates that align with the fresh aesthetic of macOS Tahoe, including a redesigned Dock and icons. This modern design ensures that Parallels Desktop 26 stands out as a sophisticated platform for running multiple operating systems on a single device.

Background Process Support

Parallels Desktop 26 has been optimized to support background processes like setup routines and Coherence mode on macOS 26. The new versioning scheme, which combines the year of design with the version of macOS supported (e.g., Parallels Desktop 26), provides users with a clear understanding of upgrades and ensures they have access to the correct version.

Windows Virtual Machine Enhancements

This latest iteration of Parallels Desktop includes several key enhancements for Windows virtual machines (VMs):

1. Disk Space Visibility: Windows VMs can now see available disk space on the Mac, providing users with greater control over storage and preventing freezes, slowdowns, and crashes.
2. Single-App Deployment Guide: A comprehensive guide has been introduced to facilitate single-app deployment in Windows, streamlining the process for IT administrators.

Enterprise Features

Parallels Desktop 26 boasts several high-value features designed specifically for businesses and IT teams:

1. SOC 2 Type II Compliance: The software has successfully met the latest SOC 2 Type II standards, guaranteeing strong security and privacy measures for IT teams.
2. Jamf Functionality: New Jamf functionality allows IT teams to monitor and manage Windows OS updates within Windows VMs using Jamf Pro and other mobile device management (MDM) systems.
3. Granular Policy Controls: Granular policy controls for secure VMs are coming soon, providing IT teams with access to the Parallels Desktop Enterprise Management Portal.

Future Developments

Several features are currently in development or scheduled for release:

1. Enterprise Management Portal: IT teams will gain access to a centralized platform for enforcing settings on shared folders, USB access, clipboard sharing, and network modes across users.
2. VM Configuration Settings: A future release will introduce functions for defining and managing VM configuration settings centrally, allowing IT teams to control devices, configurations, and OSs even as users create new VMs.

2025 Updates

Parallels Desktop 26 has undergone significant evolution in 2025, with the introduction of several key features:

1. Customized VM Deployments: Customized VM deployments are now possible using multiple golden images.
2. USB Passthrough Support: USB passthrough support is available for macOS VMs on Apple silicon devices.
3. SSO Activation Enforcement: SSO activation enforcement through MDM has been introduced, providing enhanced security features.
4. Support for Google Workspace and JumpCloud as IdPs: Parallels Desktop Enterprise now supports Google Workspace and JumpCloud as identity providers (IdPs).
5. VM Locking and User Setting Locking: VM locking for secure access and user setting locking for admins have been introduced.

Compatibility and Integration

Parallels Desktop 26 has also been enhanced to support various integrations:

1. Windows Apps and Apple Writing Tools: Compatibility with Windows apps and Apple Writing Tools allows users to leverage features like Rewrite and Summarize in Windows apps within their Windows VMs.
2. Dragon Medical One Macros for Mac Apps: Dragon Medical One macros are now supported for Mac apps, enabling users to dictate directly into Mac applications and run voice commands and macros.
3. OBS Virtual Camera Support: OBS virtual camera support is available for Windows apps, allowing users to stream from their Mac's version of OBS software to Windows video conferencing or capture apps.

Virtual Machine Improvements

Parallels Desktop 26 includes several enhancements for macOS VMs:

1. Better VPN and Network Handling: Improved handling of VPNs and networks ensures seamless connectivity.
2. Clipboard Sharing and Drag-and-Drop Improvements: Clipboard sharing and drag-and-drop functionality have been optimized for a more streamlined experience.
3. Snapshot Switching: Snapshot switching is now available for macOS VMs.

Emulation Preview Feature

A new emulation preview feature allows users to run Intel-based Windows or Linux VMs on Apple silicon Macs, providing an unprecedented level of flexibility and versatility for users and IT teams alike.

Price and Availability

Parallels Desktop 26 is now available at an annual subscription rate of $99.99, $119.99 (Pro), and $149.99 (Business). A 14-day trial version is also available on the Parallels website.