GoKawiilParallels Desktop 27 adds OpenGL 4.3 support for Windows VMs on Apple Silicon
Parallels Desktop 27 introduces a new Metal-based graphics driver enabling hardware-accelerated OpenGL 4.3 for Windows virtual machines running on Apple Silicon Macs. This unlocks professional Windows applications like ArcGIS Pro, ZWCAD, and Blender 4.3 that previously required this graphics baseline to function. Parallels also touts faster AI workload performance and new enterprise management tools aimed at IT departments.
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Mac-based professionals in engineering, architecture, and design fields have long faced compatibility gaps when trying to run specialized Windows software through virtualization. By closing this OpenGL support gap, Parallels removes a major barrier that previously forced some users to keep separate Windows machines or dual-boot setups. The added enterprise IT features also signal Parallels' push to stay relevant as businesses increasingly standardize on Apple Silicon hardware.
- New Metal-based driver brings OpenGL 4.3 support to Windows VMs on Apple Silicon Macs.
- Professional apps like ArcGIS Pro, ZWCAD, and Blender 4.3 can now run virtualized with claimed performance gains up to 160% on newer Macs.
- Update also includes faster local AI processing and new enterprise deployment tools for IT teams.
Parallels Desktop for Mac — If you need Windows apps on an Apple silicon Mac, Parallels Desktop is the go-to virtualization app, and version 27 adds a Metal-based graphics driver, OpenGL 4.3 support in Windows VMs, and faster local AI workloads. It's an easy way to run Windows-only software without rebooting or buying a second machine.
See Parallels Desktop for Mac on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: 9to5mac.com — Bradley C, 2026-08-25
Published there as: “Apple @ Work: Parallels Desktop 27 brings OpenGL 4.3 and AI acceleration to Apple Silicon”
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