One of the bigger names in virtualization — VMware — has remained strangely silent on the subject of Macintosh support, but it’s silent no more. On Monday, VMware announced support for the Mac with a forthcoming beta release.
Virtualization enables computers like Intel-based Macs to support different operating systems without rebooting. It’s the same concept that powers Parallels Desktop, CodeWeavers’ CrossOver, and most recently, TransGaming’s gaming-focused Cider.
VMware boasts more than four million users worldwide — the company has distinguished itself with a strong focus on bringing virtual machine technology to enterprise computers and servers. More recently it’s expanded its reach to appeal to virtual machine neophytes as well.
According to the scant information on VMware’s Web site, its Mac offering provides drag-and-drop support and doesn’t require rebooting. Virtual machines created using the new product can run virtual machines created on other platforms, too.
The software can run “virtual appliances” that offer support for security, network applications, databases, communications and business applications. The VMware Technology Network (VMTN) offers downloadable packages — the virtual appliances — all designed to run with VMware’s virtualization software.
VMware is holding demos in tandem with this week’s Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in San Francisco — visitors to the event interested in learning more can stop by the Four Seasons Hotel in San Francisco, at the Yerba Buena A Room, from 12:30 PM – 8:00 PM on August 7, 2006.