Microsoft has officially authorised a method for running Windows 11 on ARM-based Macs, albeit not in the manner you may expect. In a new support article, the firm has “approved” using Parallels Desktop 18 to run the ARM versions of Windows 11 Pro and Enterprise on M1- and M2-based Macs. If you require Windows for work, you may utilise the virtual computer without upsetting your IT manager.
As you may expect, there are constraints. You can’t execute 32-bit ARM programmes because Microsoft is discontinuing 32-bit software support for all ARM Windows releases. Devices will not function unless they are equipped with Windows 11 ARM drivers. Android applications, the Linux system, and Windows Sandbox cannot be used since they rely on another layer of virtualization. Don’t expect to play any games, since anything that needs at least DirectX 12 or OpenGL 3.3 will not operate.
Since 2021, it has been possible to run Windows 11 in Parallels on ARM Macs, and it has performed well. Nevertheless, you had to use an Insider sample of the OS at the time, and Microsoft said at the time that it had no plans to support new Macs. Parallels Desktop 18 now allows you to download and install Windows 11 with little effort, thanks to the sanctioned method.
According to The Verge, it’s unclear how Microsoft modified the licencing – before recently, it exclusively licenced ARM versions of Windows directly to PC OEMs. We’ve reached out to the firm for comment. According to Parallels, you may purchase an individual Windows 11 Pro licence or go via your employer’s normal buying procedure.
This will not satisfy consumers who wanted native Windows functionality on Intel-based Macs using Apple’s Boot Camp. You won’t get the same performance or compatibility as you would with a Windows-based ARM Computer. Yet, it may be the closest thing to a partnership between Apple and Microsoft, and it may suffice if there is a must-run Windows productivity software.
