VMware has released Workstation 12 Pro, the latest update to its virtualization platform, as well as VMware Fusion 8 and Fusion 8 Pro.
The biggest change coming to all three solutions is the introduction of Windows 10 support, although the company touts at least 40 new features for Workstation and Fusion respectively.
“Out of the box, VMware Workstation 12 Pro will work seamlessly with Windows 10, allowing developers and IT administrators to easily test for application compatibility prior to production deployments and enable maximum uptime and availability,” Nicolas Rochard, director of product marketing of end-user computing at VMware said in a statement.
Other new features in Workstation 12 Pro include support for the latest Linux distribution, DirectX 10 and OpenGL 3.3 support for enhanced graphics, faster performance in areas including suspending or resuming encrypted virtual machines, faster 3D graphics and better Skype and Lync VoIP performance on a virtual machine. Furthermore, the platform has been optimized for both 4K UHD and QHD+ displays as well as mixed screen environments.
Meanwhile, VMware Fusion 8 and its Pro version, which allows Windows to be run on Mac machines, will allow features such as Cortana and the Edge browser to run.
Fusion 8, designed for non-technical users now has Apple OS X El Capitain support. Like Workstation 12 Pro, it has enhanced graphics and support for the latest Mac hardware. The Pro version, designed for technical professionals, goes further to include Ubuntu 15.04 support, native integration with VMware vCloud Air, improved integration with other types of VMware environments, support for developer tools, and updated networking controls.
According to VMware, while 32 bit operating systems are supported within virtual machines, VMware Workstation 12 Pro requires 64 bit processors and 64 bit host operating systems for advanced computing and modern applications.
VMware Workstation 12 Pro is now available for US$249.99 or $149.99 for an upgrade from versions 10 and 11. Those that purchased version 11 between July 29 and September 30 this year qualify for a free upgrade.
Fusion 8 and Fusion 8 Pro are also now available for US$79.99 and US$199.99, while Fusion 8 Pro is also available from partners and distributors.
