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.

For many gamers, the idea of playing Windows games on a Mac computer may feel like a distant dream, even as we progress into 2024. However, the reality is that this situation is far more optimistic than it may initially appear. While it’s well-known that games have been available on the Mac since the original Macintosh was launched back in 1984, the selection of titles has often lagged behind what is accessible on Windows PCs. The transition of Macs from PowerPC processors to Intel architecture in 2005 marked a turning point, as it allowed developers an easier pathway for porting their games between the two platforms. This transition was so significant that even Valve took the leap to launch its Steam storefront on macOS in 2010.

Fast-forward to 2024, and Apple silicon Macs have emerged not merely as successors to Intel-based units but as formidable powerhouses in their own right. These M-series Macs offer enhanced performance, enabling users to play Windows games at remarkably faster frame rates. A game-changing addition came in 2023 when Apple introduced the Game Tool Porting Kit (GTPK), a translation layer that allows developers to efficiently convert their games to run on the best Macs. Not only does this development streamline the porting process, but it has also paved the way for innovative apps that facilitate Mac users’ access to their beloved Steam titles with ease. In this article, we delve into three exceptional applications that provide seamless access to Windows gaming experiences on your Mac.

3. Whisky

When we trialed Whisky earlier this year, we were thoroughly impressed by the functionality it offered to those eager to play a wide range of Windows games on their Mac, all with minimal setup requirements. This aspect is particularly valuable for casual gamers—those who may not have extensive technical expertise or the desire to configure complicated systems. Whisky is a free application that effectively leverages Apple’s GTPK along with Wine, a well-known Windows emulation framework. Together, they work to install the necessary Windows components that make downloading applications like Steam or the Epic Games Store onto your Mac an entirely uncomplicated process.

Once Whisky is up and running, Windows-exclusive titles such as Elden Ring and Star Wars: Outlaws can operate seamlessly on an Apple silicon Mac. In our practical tests, we witnessed impeccable performance with titles including the Tomb Raider Trilogy Remastered and Fallout 4 when played on an M3 Max MacBook Pro. This experience left us more than just impressed; it sparked anticipation about how future generations, particularly the recently announced M4 Macs, would enhance gameplay and handle even higher framerates with these latest chips.

2. Parallels Desktop

Parallels Desktop represents another powerful option within the realm of gaming on macOS. This versatile virtualization application allows users to run alternative operating systems like Windows 11 alongside macOS, opening the door to a slew of applications and games that are otherwise not available natively on macOS. While Parallels may not be inherently designed with gaming as its primary focus, our testing has shown that it performs exceptionally well in this capacity. For instance, we ran titles like Metal Gear Solid V: The Phantom Pain without experiencing a single hitch or performance dip.

The flexibility of Parallels Desktop allows users the option to view Windows apps and games in separate windows or to take advantage of fullscreen mode for a more immersive experience on their Mac’s display. This adds an extra layer of convenience for users who want to enjoy everything from productivity tools to gaming without switching out of their preferred operating systems constantly. As an added bonus, Parallels Desktop usually offers a 30-day free trial, after which you can opt for an annual subscription priced at $99.99, making it a fairly accessible investment for avid gamers and productivity seekers alike.

1. Mythic

Mythic leads the pack as a groundbreaking new application that elevates the gaming experience on a Mac to new heights, building upon the strengths of Whisky and incorporating additional features along with a refined visual design. Unique to Mythic is its support for the Epic Games Store, which enables users to download and play popular titles like Rocket League without a hitch, along with access to any other games you have in your Epic library.

Once logged into your Epic account, users can manage their downloaded games within Mythic, rearranging them to better utilize storage on your Mac, customizing the game’s artwork, adjusting the Windows version for better compatibility, and much more. The user interface has been meticulously designed to be both elegant and straightforward, allowing you to navigate through options with ease. This accessibility means that you can dive straight into gaming experiences like Grand Theft Auto V on your Mac without any cumbersome detours or difficulties.

The New M4 Macs Could Give Gaming With Apple the Level-Up It Needs

While utilizing one or more of the three apps discussed above can surely enhance your ability to satisfy your Mac gaming desires, it is important to note that Apple’s platform continues to lag behind when it comes to offering a wide range of native games. Although some exciting titles such as Civilization VII, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Resident Evil 2 Remake are on their way to the Mac, the overall gaming library on the Mac App Store remains in stark contrast to the expansive selection that can be found on the leading Windows laptops.

Apple has showcased the impressive ray tracing features of its M3 MacBook Pro lineup, particularly during the ‘Scary Fast’ event held in November 2023. However, we have yet to witness many games optimizing for this advanced feature, which could genuinely enhance gaming performance. Now that the new M4 Macs are available for pre-order—including the captivating M4 iMac—there exists a newfound hope that we will soon witness the unveiling of even more games tailored for Apple silicon, which would significantly enrich the gaming library available for Mac users.

These newly launched Macs not only boast powerful hardware but also feature a sleek design that comes in a delightful array of vibrant colors, capturing the attention of technology enthusiasts everywhere.

We want to hear your thoughts and experiences! Engage with us in the comments section below, sharing your opinions while maintaining a respectful atmosphere. This discussion thread is open for all, and we’d be excited to read your perspectives and feedback on gaming on Macs or any of the applications discussed in this article