Parallels (http://www.parallels.com) has released Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac, the latest version of the software for running Windows and Mac applications side-by-side on a Mac without rebooting. The new version has more than 80 new and enhanced features, says Serguei Beloussov, chairman and CEO of Parallels.

He says 3D graphics run nearly 40% better than before. Boot time for Windows is 41% faster than before, and Parallels Desktop 6 also boosts speed for working with files on USB drives, networks and in shared folders, says Beloussov.

Parallels also announced the availability of Parallels Desktop 6 Switch to Mac Edition, which includes Parallels Desktop 6 plus new features specifically designed to make the move from PC to Mac smart and simple. The Switch to Mac Edition provides a set of switching tools and includes a Parallels High-Speed USB data transfer cable.  All of your programs, files, user settings and now even your browser favorites and bookmarks are automatically moved to your Mac. With one click, new pre-defined user profiles let you simply choose as little or as much Windows as you want.

Other new features in Parallels Desktop 6 experience include: 5.1 Surround Sound support, parental control, VM encryption, Mac shortcuts, Web browser favorites and anti-virus protection.

Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac will be available for download, as well as packaged software for delivery, from Parallels.com starting on Sept. 14.  Packaged software will also be available at Apple retail stores and Apple.com, Amazon.com, Fry's Electronics, MicroCenter and hundreds of other retail locations nationwide on Sept. 14.

The standard retail price of Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac is US$79.99, and a student edition is available for $39.99. Parallels Desktop 6 Switch to Mac Edition is $99.99. Upgrades at $49.99 are available now for existing Parallels Desktop for Mac customers. Customers who purchased Parallels Desktop 5 for Mac from an authorized reseller on or after Aug. 15, 2010, are eligible to upgrade to Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac at no additional cost, when it becomes available.

Parallels Desktop 6 for Mac is available in English, German, French, Italian and Spanish starting Sept. 14. Additional localized versions will be available in Japanese, Russian, simple and traditional Chinese, Czech and Polish in the coming weeks. Volume pricing and site-license opportunities are also available by contacting the Parallels Sales Team.