By Sam Oliver

Published: 08:30 AM EST

Parallels, the makers of Windows virtualization software for Mac, unveiled a new application bundle Tuesday that allows PC users to switch to OS X while retaining their programs and data.

The Parallels Desktop Switch to a Mac Edition allows users to bring their files and familiar applications from a Microsoft Windows-based PC. It relies on the Parallels Desktop 4.0 software to give users the ability to run their PC applications within OS X without running Boot Camp. It is available for $99.99 direct from Parallels.

"The growth in switching is partially due to the ease-of-use and cool capabilities of the Mac," said Serguei Beloussov, CEO of Parallels. "However, users don’t want to lose the data they have accumulated and the applications they are already familiar with. Building on our proven track record of Mac innovation, we have addressed this concern and made learning the new operating system even simpler through interactive on-demand tutorials."

The new edition of Parallels Desktop includes more than two hours of interactive video tutorials, a reference card, the Parallels high speed USB transfer cable and Enhanced Parallels transporter combo for transferring files, and Parallels Desktop for Mac 4.0 all bundled into one package. It requires an Intel-based Mac running Mac OS X 10.4.11 or later, and a PC with Windows XP SP2 or Windows Vista with a DVD compatible drive.



The new bundle also includes Acronis Disk Director Suite, Acronis True Image Home, and Parallels Internet Security powered by Kaspersky, together worth $180 in value.

Parallels sees the smooth transition of PC users to the Mac as an important part of the switching process. In Apple's June quarter, it was reported that half of all Mac buyers in Apple retail locations were switching from the PC.



In a recent test, Parallels was found to outperform competitor VMware Fusion, routinely besting it by running 14 percent to 20 percent faster. Parallels can virtualize both Windows XP and Vista in a variety of configurations, allowing users to run Windows software within Mac OS X.