In an announcement today, Parallels revealed it worked in partnership with Google to allow Windows apps to work on Chrome OS. However, the company points out apps will be limited to Enterprise users. Interestingly, Google does not seem overly enthused by this development. While the company worked with Parallels, the company only offered one line in a blog post to confirm the announcement. As for the collaboration, Parallels says it will bring the following benefits:
Seamlessly add full-featured Windows apps, including Microsoft Office, to Chromebook Enterprise devices Enable efficient, productive and collaborative work anytime from anywhere Eliminate additional hardware costs and minimize total cost of ownership (TCO)
Of course, Google would prefer users run its own apps. In enterprise, many companies are either deeply engrained in Microsoft services or simply prefer Windows. Google has had to increasingly concede Chrome OS needs some connection to the Windows ecosystem.
Coming Soon
Parallels is known for providing apps in virtualization, like its “Desktop” app that allows Windows 10 to run on macOS. It seems like Windows apps on Chrome OS are at an early stage and not much information has been provided. For example, Parallels does not explain how Chrome Enterprise users will be able to access Windows apps. Speaking to AndroidPolice, the company says it will be a “variation of Parallels Desktop integrated natively into Chrome OS”. One of the biggest complaints about Chrome OS is its always online nature. Parallels says Windows apps will work offline. Parallels plans to roll out the ability this fall.
