Parallels Desktop RC3 improves Vista support

Parallels has released a new “release candidate” version of its Parallels Desktop for Mac software. The new version — RC3, or build 3170 — is available for download from the Web site.

Parallels Desktop for Mac is the software that enables Intel-based Macs to run Windows alongside Mac OS X, without having to reboot first. A major enhancement to the version that was released last year, this version (ultimately to be numbered version 2.5) features Coherence, which lets you run Windows applications straight for your dock; USB 2.0 support; better support for Boot Camp partitions and many other new features.

Specific changes in RC3 include support for upgrading from XP to Windows Vista, a more secure drag and drop capability, and preliminary support for Leopard, Apple’s next major operating system release.