Parallels Desktop for ChromeOS

Parallels Desktop for ChromeOS is a hardware visualization application that allows Chrome Enterprise devices to access an incredible variety of Windows PC apps, including Microsoft Office apps both online and offline.



Originally built as a virtualization engine for Windows app emulation on Intel-based Macs, this award-winning software has now arrived on ChromeOS, empowering professionals to stay in touch with the incredible Windows ecosystem both at home, at work, on the go, and even offline.

With over a decade and a half of enterprise experience, developers at Parallels have managed to craft an optimized, reliable, and secure Windows virtualization service for ChromeOS users, with a wide array of quality-of-life features and critical enterprise services.

• Empower users with the full potential of the Chromebook AND the full power of the Windows ecosystem.
• Simplify IT management while supporting a robust dynamic workforce.
• Drag and drop files & text between ChromeOS and Windows | Increased Windows app space with compact title bar | 12 new supported devices.

Users are enabled to effortlessly switch between native ChromeOS environment into Windows without the need to reboot, with full support for app management, file and folder management and transfers (including drag & drop), a wide array of touch-based gestures, and even full access to Windows experience when offline.

Collaboration between two OS instances even covers shared clipboard, shared printers, access to various hardware accessories (microphones, web cameras, USB smart card readers, and many others), and much more.

Compatibility of Parallels Desktop for ChromeOS with Windows apps is extensive, and it fully covers all Microsoft productivity apps such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and others. Enterprise users and large business teams can be managed with ease with full support for Active Directory and Microsoft Endpoint Management solutions, virtual machine management, and full support for various ChromeOS security features.

Parallels Desktop for ChromeOS receives regular updates, expanding its compatibility not only with Windows apps and services but also with newly released Chromebook models.

The app even supports the installation and use of Windows 11 and can be installed on a wide array of Intel and AMD-based Chrome OS devices from manufacturers such as Acer, ASUS, Dell, HP, Google, CTL, Lenovo, and Samsung.

What's New

Expanded Chrome OS Device Support

Parallels Desktop is now compatible with a broader range of Chrome OS devices, including:

• CTL Chromebox CBx2
• Lenovo Slim 5 Chromebook
• Acer Chromebook 515
• ASUS Chromebook Flip CX3

Additionally, the following devices are now supported:

• HP c640 Pro G2 Chromebook
• HP Chromebook x360 14
• HP Chromebook x360 14c
• HP Chromebook 15
• Acer Chromebook 712
• Dell Inspiron Chromebook 14 2-in-1
• Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook
• Lenovo C340-15 Chromebook
• ASUS Chromebook Flip CX5
• ASUS Chromebook Flip CX9
• Samsung Galaxy Chromebook
• Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2

Enhanced User Interface

Compact Title Bar: The new compact title bar retains all functionality while providing more screen space for Windows apps in Window view mode.
Improved Drag and Drop: You can now drag and drop text between Windows and Chrome OS apps. Note: Not all applications support this feature in both directions.

Better Display on External Monitors

Improved DPI Handling: Windows and Windows apps now display better on external monitors due to enhanced handling of Windows DPI settings.

Performance Improvements

Faster Resume: Windows resumes from the suspended state up to 70% faster.

Improved File Management

Drag and Drop Files: You can now drag and drop files between Chrome OS (e.g., Files app or Tote) and Windows. To drag and drop a file, ensure the Chrome OS folder is shared with Windows by right-clicking it and selecting "Share with Parallels Desktop". The file will be copied to the new location upon dragging and dropping.

System requirements of Parallels Desktop for ChromeOS are as follows:

• ChromeOS version 85 or later
• Processor: Dual Core Intel (i3 – i7) or AMD (R3 – R7)
• Memory: 8GB of RAM
• Storage: 128GB or more
• Additional Requirements: Google Admin console, Chrome Enterprise Upgrade, Chrome Education Upgrade, Microsoft Windows, Corporate storage server

PROS

• Seamless Integration: Runs Windows applications alongside ChromeOS apps.
• Performance: Optimized for Chromebooks with Intel processors.
• Enterprise Features: Supports centralized management and security features for businesses.
• Offline Access: Access Windows applications and files without an internet connection.
• Compatibility: Broad support for various Windows applications, including legacy software.

CONS

• Cost: Requires a subscription fee, which can add up over time.
• System Requirements: Needs a high-end Chromebook with an Intel processor, limiting accessibility.
• Resource Intensive: Can consume significant system resources, potentially affecting performance.
• Limited USB Support: Some peripherals may not work as smoothly as on native Windows machines.
• Initial Setup: Requires technical know-how for installation and configuration.

Note: 30 days trial version.