# Mac virtualization software updates

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/mac-virtualization-software-updates
> Updated: 2026-09-22T10:47:37.000Z. Sources: 6. Developments: 2.

Parallels has released Parallels Desktop 27, a virtualization solution for Apple Silicon Macs. The update introduces a Metal-based graphics driver providing hardware-accelerated OpenGL 4.3 support, which is intended to improve performance for professional applications such as ArcGIS Pro, ZWCAD, and Blender 4.3.

The software also integrates AI acceleration via SME instructions on M4 and newer Apple chips to assist with machine learning matrix operations and neural network inference. 

In a broader development for Mac virtualization, VMware has announced that VMware Fusion Pro is now free for personal, non-commercial use following its acquisition by Broadcom. This version supports Windows 11 ARM and various Linux distributions on M-series chips.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-22: VMware and Parallels announce major updates for Mac virtualization

VMware Fusion Pro is now free for personal use on Mac, while Parallels Desktop 27 launches with enhanced OpenGL support and improved AI computing performance for Apple Silicon.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/vmware-and-parallels-announce-major-updates-for-mac-virtualization

### 2026-08-25: Parallels Desktop 27 brings OpenGL 4.3 and AI acceleration to Apple Silicon

Parallels Desktop 27 introduces a Metal-based graphics driver with OpenGL 4.3 support and AI acceleration for Windows VMs on Apple Silicon Macs, boosting performance for professional technical applications.

4 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/parallels-desktop-27-brings-opengl-43-and-ai-acceleration-to-apple-silicon

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Cite as: Mac virtualization software updates. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/mac-virtualization-software-updates