Parallels Access Gets A Big Update Bringing iPhone Support, New File Browser
by Joe White
June 17, 2014
The folks at Parallels, makers of the popular "hardware virtualization" software for OS X (which allows Mac owners to easily run Windows on their computer), have sent out an update for Parallels Access that makes a large number of alterations to the remote desktop iOS app.
First on the list of changes is one Parallels users will really appreciate: iPhone support. As of Parallels Access's 2.0 update, the application is universal and can be installed on an iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. There's a new user interface (UI) for the smaller-sized iPhone (pictured above), but Parallels Access nevertheless packs a similar punch when running on Cupertino's smartphone.
Usefully, a new file browser makes it easier for users to browse their Mac's filesystem, and Parallels Access now also allows iOS device owners to adjust their computer's screen resolution and to wake up a sleeping Mac.
Facebook login has also been added in Parallels Access 2.0, as has the ability to capture audio using the iPhone or iPad's built-in microphone. Speaking more generally, a selection of bug fixes and performance improvements are also said to have appeared in the updated application.
Here's a complete list of changes:
Parallels Access received its last significant update in January, and this brought a handful of new features along with revamped subscription options. Though free to download and install, users are going to require a Parallels subscription in order to use the app: these cost $19.99 per year and cover up to five computers. A two-week free trial is also available from Parallels. As mentioned, you can download the recently updated Parallels Access on the App Store now, and it's optimized for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvDJ2xhybHA If you can't see the above video, please click this link. [gallery]
- Parallels Access is now a Universal app, with support for both iPad and iPhone.
- You can now change the screen resolution.
- Use the new file browser to access files from your computer.
- Wake a sleeping remote computer.
- Register or login using your Facebook account.
- Capture microphone input on your iPad or iPhone.
- Other enhancements, as well as improved stability and performance.
