VMware today is announcing Fusion 12, the next major update to Fusion, its virtualization software that allows users to run a variety of operating systems on virtual machines within macOS.
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Fusion 12 brings several new updates and improvements, including eGPU compatibility, support for container-based applications built with Kubernetes, DirectX 11 and OpenGL 4.1 support, improved security for the sandbox rendering engine, improved accessibility controls, and more.
VMware has also prepared Fusion 12 for the upcoming launch of macOS Big Sur, which will continue Apple's transition toward ending support for kernel extensions. VMware says that Fusion 12 will continue to run with kernel extensions on macOS Catalina, but will also support macOS Big Sur by using Apple's APIs to run its virtual machines and containers.
Finally, with this new version of Fusion, VMware is also shaking up its pricing with a new Fusion 12 Player licensing structure that is free for personal use. Fusion 12 Player users who want to use the software for commercial use will be able to purchase a license for $149, with an upgrade license available for $89 to those currently running Fusion 10 or 11.
A professional-level Fusion 12 Pro offers some additional power-user features and allows you to run on up to three devices (including Windows or Linux PCs running VMware's Workstation Pro), with pricing set at $199 for a new license or $99 as an upgrade. Discounted educational pricing will also be available for Fusion 12, although many students will also be able to take advantage of the free personal use license.
Users who purchased Fusion 11.5 or Fusion 11.5 Pro after June 15 will be eligible for a free upgrade to Fusion 12 Player (commercial license) or Fusion 12 Pro.
VMware hasn't yet announced a specific launch date for Fusion 12 Player and Fusion 12 Pro, other than a general timeframe of later this fiscal quarter, which runs through October for VMware. They will be available through VMware's online store and other outlets.
Note: MacRumors is an affiliate partner with VMware. When you click a link and make a purchase, we may receive a small payment, which helps us keep the site running.
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Top Rated Comments
The real question for me is if Microsoft will port its business applications like MS Project and MS Visio to run on the ARM version of Windows. Yes, there are MacOS alternatives, some much better than Microsoft's offerings, but that's not the point when working with large corporate clients.
I do see a problem for gamers. But Apple computers were never really gaming machines. As with all software, it's going to depend on whether or not the software creators of gaming or business apps create ARM ports of their products. For me that's a wait and see game.
Given that I intend to keep using my existing Intel-based mac for at least another year or two, and that I will upgrade to BigSur, I will upgrade to VM Ware Fusion Pro 12. For me it's a no-brainer. I need to keep things running smoothly.
I'm sure that for many others here there needs and wants are different from mine. I'm just sharing my thoughts and what it means for me. Just my $0.02.