Parallels Desktop 9 announced, available September 5

Hot on the heels of the announcement of Parallels Access, Parallels today announced the latest upgrade to the Parallels Desktop virtualization application. Parallels Desktop 9 will be available to the public on September 5, 2013, and includes a variety of new features:

• Support for cloud services: Sync iCloud, Dropbox, Google Drive, SkyDrive, etc. with your Mac and your Windows virtual machine without unnecessary duplication of files locally.

• Enhanced Windows 8 and 8.1 support: Parallels Desktop brings back the real Start menu and lets customers use Metro apps in a window instead of full-screen.

• Security Center: Easily access and install complimentary security software subscriptions to keep the Mac and Windows virtual machines safe from viruses and malware, all from one location.

• Enhanced new Virtual Machine Wizard: It is easier than ever to set up a new virtual machine, especially on computers that don't have DVD drives.

• Power Nap support: On a Retina MacBook Pro or a MacBook Air, the Power Nap feature now extends to Windows and Windows apps, so virtual machines and all Windows applications are always up-to-date.

• Mac gestures inside Windows apps: Parallels Desktop now includes the addition of the Dictionary lookup gesture in Windows applications.

• Thunderbolt and Firewire storage device support: For convenience of everyday use, customers can connect those devices directly to a Windows virtual machine.

• PDF printer for Windows: Lets people print from any Windows application to a PDF on the Mac desktop, even if the application doesn't have that functionality.

• Sticky multi-monitor setup: When using Windows in Full Screen mode and connecting to an external monitor, Parallels Desktop will remember settings and put the Windows virtual machine back in full-screen mode on the remote monitor.

• Custom keyboard: Editable keyboard shortcuts help customize the Windows experience.

• Linux guest integration: Parallels Desktop customers who use Linux now have additional and enhanced integration with the Mac OS.

Parallels Desktop 9 for Mac is priced at US$79.99, and the Student Edition is available for $39.99. Parallels Desktop 9 Switch to Mac Edition is $99.95. Upgrades are starting today for existing Parallels Desktop 7 or 8 for Mac customers for $49.99. Parallels Desktop 9 for Mac customers receive a complimentary six-month subscription to Parallels Access for the Mac when Parallels Desktop 9 is installed and activated, a $39.99 value.

TUAW will have a full review of Parallels Desktop 9 in the near future. In the meantime, here's a short video demonstrating the new features.