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Parallels virtualization software coming to Apple stores

Apple Computer and several other retail store operators will soon carry Parallels' virtualization software, which allows Intel Mac users to run both the Windows and Mac OS X operating systems simultaneously.

Parallels on Tuesday said it has entered into an agreement with Nova Development to bring its Parallels Desktop software to thousands of retail stores nationwide by next month.

In addition to Apple's retail stores, Parallels Desktop for Mac will be available at CompUSA, Staples, Office Depot, Fry's Electronics, Amazon.com, and numerous other software outlets.

Until now, Parallels Desktop for Mac had only been available for purchase online for the suggested retail price of $79.95.

"This retail launch helps to further eliminate the barrier that previously kept Mac and Windows from effectively working together, side by side, simultaneously, on one computer," said Benjamin Rudolph, marketing manager of Parallels.

Parallels Desktop is similar to Apple's Boot Camp software, but does not require the user to shut down Mac OS X in order to run Windows or vise versa. It also runs other operating systems such as Linux.