Today's issue of TechnoLawyer NewsWire covers virtualization software (see article below), the king of modern-day PDAs, a trademark service geared at social networks, an online faxing service, and an online service and smartphone app that converts written content into audio. Don't miss the next issue.
I'm a Mac … and I'm a PC Too
As Apple's share of the PC market continues to creep up, more law firms have switched from Windows to Mac. If you've considered the big switch, you've probably debated the cost of leaving behind your preferred Windows applications. How significantly will switching interrupt your workflow? Do you need an IT professional to ensure a seamless transition? Or maybe you're already a diehard Mac user, but you'd love to run some legal-specific Windows applications on your Mac. If you listen to Apple or Microsoft, you might think you must pledge your allegiance to one operating system and forgo the benefits of the other. Not so.
Parallels Desktop 6 … in One Sentence
Released yesterday, Parallels Desktop 6 is a program that enables you to run Windows on your Mac.
The Killer Feature
Version 6 boasts enhanced speed and power over its predecessor, thanks to 64-bit virtual machine performance that takes full advantage of your Mac's hardware capabilities — especially Macs with more than 1 GB of memory.
You can create 32- and 64-bit virtual machines with up to 8 CPUs and 2 TB virtual RAM. The upgrade affords the software up to 80 percent faster 3D performance, twice as fast performance for Shared Folders, and faster Windows startup and shutdown — running Windows applications an overall 41 percent faster than Parallels Desktop 5. You'll also find related geeky enhancements such as PXE boot, and Command Line and scripting support.
Other Notable Features
Parallels Desktop 6 enables you to further customize your preferred blend of Windows and Mac interface. For example, it supports Mac trackpad gestures and OS X keyboard shortcuts in Windows programs.
Version 6 also offers enhanced support for Expose, Boot Camp partitions, and Active Corners. Windows 7 icons show up in your dock with support for Jump Lists and progress indicators. You can also use Spotlight to search for Windows programs.
What Else Should You Know?
An accompanying iOS app enables you to control your virtual Windows machine from your iPhone or iPad even if you're not on the same network as your Mac. Parallels Desktop 6 retails for $79.99 (upgrades cost $49.99 — free if you purchased Parallels Desktop 5 on or after August 15, 2010). Learn more about Parallels Desktop 6.
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So many products, so little time. In each issue of TechnoLawyer NewsWire, you'll learn about five new products for the legal profession. Pressed for time? The "In One Sentence" section describes each product in one sentence, and the "Killer Feature" section describes each product's most compelling feature. The TechnoLawyer NewsWire newsletter is free so don't miss the next issue. Please subscribe now.
