Parallels Desktop 20 Integrates Apple Intelligence But Comes With Limitations

In a significant development for Mac users, Parallels has introduced access to Apple Intelligence, the tech giant’s suite of artificial intelligence tools, directly into its virtualization software, Parallels Desktop 20. This integration allows users to utilize Writing Tools, a feature that generates and refines text, within Windows 11 applications. However, the execution and accessibility of this feature bring some caveats that potential users ought to consider.

Upon Apple’s recent launch of Apple Intelligence designed for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, Parallels made it clear that they would be extending this functionality to Windows 11, albeit through a virtual channel. Nevertheless, in order to use Writing Tools, users are required to have a Mac equipped with Apple silicon and be running macOS Sequoia version 15.1 or later. This means Windows 11 users on traditional PCs will be left out of this feature completely.

Parallels Desktop 20 not only provides new capabilities, but it is also essential for users looking to leverage Apple’s AI tools, as prior versions may not include these updates. Users must ensure their software is updated properly and that they activate Writing Tools within their virtual machines. To do this, users are advised to manually update Parallels Tools which can be accomplished through the Actions menu in the VM. Additionally, it’s recommended to check in the Apple settings to guarantee that Apple Intelligence is enabled.

Once everything is set up, users can employ Writing Tools in various Windows 11 text-editing applications, such as Notepad and Microsoft Word. Activation of these tools can be done through a simple shortcut or selecting them from the Edit menu. Users can generate new text, refine existing text, and execute similar tasks, creating a new layer of efficiency for those who frequently use AI assistance for their writing tasks.

However, practical challenges emerge as users attempt to utilize these tools. Notably, Writing Tools only function reliably when Coherence mode is activated—an interface that allows Windows applications to coexist harmoniously on the macOS desktop alongside native applications. This restricts users who prefer working with the full Windows 11 interface from benefiting from this new feature. Moreover, while Writing Tools can be used in any app where text can be selected, its reliability diminishes outside text-centric applications.

The usefulness of this integration has raised questions, especially considering that, when using Writing Tools in Windows apps, the overall experience may not significantly differ from using the tools in macOS directly and transferring text back to the Windows environment. For such users, the process of switching between operating systems might render the integrated feature less indispensable than expected.

While Parallels Desktop 20 indeed represents a significant stride for virtualization software on Mac, the integration of Apple Intelligence feels less compelling than originally anticipated. Users who appreciate the benefits of generative AI in their writing applications might find that these tools are not enough on their own to justify the cost of a Parallels license. The standard edition carries a price tag of around $100, with additional options for pro and business versions available at higher rates.

In summary, while Parallels has made strides in offering Apple’s powerful AI tools to Windows 11 users on Macs, potential customers should weigh the practical limitations against their own needs and workflows. The hope remains that future developments could expand this feature’s compatibility to include Intel-based Macs and Windows PCs directly, offering a more seamless and integrated experience for all users. As it stands, though, the integration of Writing Tools into Windows apps via Parallels Desktop is a creative but imperfect solution for those navigating the cross-platform landscape.