NEW YORK: Apple Computer retail stores will soon start selling the virtualization software from Parallels', which enables users to run Mac OS X and Windows XP simultaneously.
Stores like the Apple Store, CompUSA, Staples, Office Depot, Fry's Electronics and Amazon.com are all readying to offer Parallels Desktop for Mac over the next 30 days. Mac owners with Intel's processors can use the software to run Windows XP in a virtual machine alongside the Mac OS and move data back and forth between Windows and Mac applications.
Apple itself offers a software in a beta form called Boot Camp that facilitates running Windows XP on a Mac. However, it requires rebooting if the user has to switch over from one OS to another. The Parallels' software can switch between the Mac and Windows operating environments without having to reboot the system.
Apple has said the next version of the Mac OS, Mac OS X 10.5, will include the Boot Camp software. However, it is not clear whether it will support virtualization software like Parallels.
Parallels is pricing its virtualization package at $79.95. It will be available at the company's website as well as with retailers.
Apple has also introduced a new laptop, called MacBook, which has Mac OS X and Windows. It has a 2-GHz dual-core Intel processor, a 13.3-inch wide-screen display, an 80-gigabyte hard disk with Mac OS X and iLife multimedia programs installed, 512MB or memory, a DVD burner and built-in camera. In addition, it can switch over to Windows XP, using Apple's Boot Camp.
