Parallels announced the final release version of its Parallels Workstation 2.2 for Windows and Linux. Following a successful, multi-stage beta testing program that involved thousands of users worldwide, the final release will be available as a free upgrade to registered Parallels Workstation 2.0 and 2.1 customers. Parallels says that its Parallels Workstation 2.2 product enables users to simultaneously run any v Parallels announced the final release version of its Parallels Workstation 2.2 for Windows and Linux. Following a successful, multi-stage beta testing program that involved thousands of users worldwide, the final release will be available as a free upgrade to registered Parallels Workstation 2.0 and 2.1 customers.Parallels says that its Parallels Workstation 2.2 product enables users to simultaneously run any version of Windows, including Beta and RC builds of Windows Vista, any Linux distribution, Solaris, FreeBSD, NetBSD, OpenBSD, OS/2, eComStation or DOS, in a stable, secure virtual machine on any computer running Windows 2000, XP or 2003, or any version of Linux. No re-booting or partitioning is required, and users never need to shut down or leave their home desktop to access a virtual machine.The latest Workstation 2.2 release offers a number of product improvements, such as: Guest OS support for Windows Vista Beta1, Beta2, and RC1, as well as NetBSD and OpenBSD Stronger support for Intel Virtualization Technology and full support for AMD Secure Virtual Machine Technology (SVM). These technologies, which are included in most new Intel and AMD processors, drive superior virtual machine performance and stability Improved USB support, including stronger support for Windows Mobile 2005 devices A re-designed, more user-friendly interface Improved overall performance and stability A Shared Folders utility that lets users easily share files and folders between operating systems and application programs Support for dynamic primary OS video modes, custom video modes and 32 bpp video modes Full Unicode support lets users name files in any language Better networking support, including WiFi support for Linux primary OSes, a default network adapter that automatically bridges to the most readily available network, and the ability to change network and bridge type “on the fly” Better sound recording and playbackA complete list of new features and upgrades is available on the company’s Web site.“Parallels Workstation 2.2 is another step forward in our mission to build the industry’s most powerful, user-friendly virtualization solutions,” said Benjamin Rudolph, Marketing Manager, Parallels. “The product’s improved feature set, and performance, unmatched ease of use and industry-leading $49 price point make Parallels Workstation 2.2 the logical choice for the everyday computer user who wants – or needs – to work with multiple operating systems simultaneously.”New users can download and evaluate Parallels Workstation 2.2 for free with a 15 day trial download. Software Development