Tim Gaden11 October 2006, 2:30 PM
Virtualisation of Windows apps on Mac is rapidly maturing, whether you want install the whole OS (Parallels Workstation) or just run individual Windows apps (CrossOver).
Parallels Workstation has released a new version of its virtualisation software, offering better memory handling and support for Windows Vista as a guest OS. The update comes hot on the heels of a new CrossOver beta, making virtualisation easier than ever before, whether you want install a whole OS (Parallels Workstation) or just run individual Windows apps (CrossOver).
The improved Parallels Workstation will now work on any Intel Mac with any memory configuration, including the full line-up of new Core 2 Duo iMacs. It boasts compatibility with the current developer build of Mac OS 10.5 and "experimental support" for Windows Vista.
It also offers support for multi-interface USB devices (including Windows Mobile 2005 devices) and webcams. Better keyboard support means that the Eject key and left/right Shift/Ctrl/Alt (Option) key now work. See the full changelog for more improvements and download a demo copy from the Parallels web site.
CrossOver Beta 2, released on 28 September, is much quicker than the first beta. It brings welcome improvements for work and play.
Much better support, including smarter OLE embedding, for Outlook 2003 and other Office 2003
applications make running Office 2003 easier. Office XP applications also run more reliably.
Using this beta I finally managed to get Outlook 2003 running (although it's not what I would call stable):
When you've had enough of Outlook and work, the new beta also offers much better gaming support and claims to be able to install and run World of Warcraft and Half-life via Steam.
It took me two hours (plus another ten due to a Boot Camp hiccup) to install Windows with Boot Camp. It took me fifteen minutes to set up Outlook with CrossOver.