14 DAY TRIAL // Chromebooks are getting more and more traction these days, but one of the drawbacks that made many people think twice before buying one was the lack of support for Windows apps.
Because after all, Windows remains an essential part of the desktop world, and this is where the majority of apps currently are. But everything is going to be resolved soon, as Parallels is bringing Windows software emulation to Chromebooks later this year.
And according to an official announcement, the new Parallels Desktop for Chromebook Enterprise will allow users to run Windows apps on Chrome OS devices without even needing an Internet connection.
Clearly aimed at enterprises for now, the new solution allows Chromebook users to experience the world of Windows without having to install a second operating system. And this is definitely good news, albeit one important thing that needs to be taken care of is the performance of the software running in emulation mode.
Microsoft Office coming to Chromebooks
Parallels says it’s specifically trying to make the experience with Windows apps feel as native as possible.
“IT admins will be able to easily manage familiar automated corporate Windows image deployments they prepare, provision, and automatically provide to their employees. Those virtual machines are fully capable Windows installations; admins can install applications, manage them remotely, and support users with familiar tools—just like they do with physical Windows PCs,” Nick Dobrovolsiky, Parallels Senior Vice President of Engineering and Customer Support, explains.
As Neowin noted, Google itself teased Windows apps coming to Chromebooks earlier this year, albeit no specifics were available on when everything is supposed to happen. Parallels’ July 6 announcement doesn’t include a clear ETA either, but it does confirm that the whole thing would be available for enterprises for the time being.
Google said that with the power of Parallels, users will be able to run some of the most popular Windows apps on Chromebooks, including even Microsoft’s very own Office productivity suite.