GoKawiilLast week, Parallels cautioned that its Parallels Desktop for Mac software was not yet tested for MacBook Neo. Following the release of Apple’s $599 laptop, Parallels is back with an update on virtual machine compatibility.
The good news is that virtualization appears to be supported on MacBook Neo. Apple supports virtual machines on M-series chips. This was an open question for MacBook Neo because it uses an A-series chip. Apple previously only used A-series chips in iPhones and some iPads.
Here’s the latest from Parallels:
Parallels Desktop runs on MacBook Neo in basic usability testing. The Parallels Engineering team has completed initial testing and confirmed that Parallels Desktop installs and virtual machines operate stably on MacBook Neo. Full validation and performance testing is ongoing, and additional compatibility statement will follow if required.
The company goes on to say that more validation through testing will follow:
Initial testing confirms that the A18 Pro provides the hardware virtualization support required to run virtual machines through Parallels Desktop. Full validation across all supported guest operating systems and use cases is still in progress.
While virtualization appears to work without a hiccup, Parallels advises that more than 8GB RAM will provide a better experience. That’s because Windows requires 4GB RAM. The virtual machine will share the 8GB RAM with both Windows and Mac.
Still, Apple has sold Macs with 8GB RAM for years, and virtualization with moderate workloads has worked. Apple’s M5 MacBook Air has 16GB RAM and a $1099 starting price.
“For light, occasional Windows use, like a legacy business tool, or a Windows-only utility, MacBook Neo may provide an acceptable experience,” Parallels says.
MacBook Neo is available now for $599. Check out our review to learn more.