Parallels Desktop upgrade to Windows 7: Ditch XP, Vista the easy way

Upgrading to Windows 7 from Windows XP has been impossible -- until now. Parallels has announced a piece of software that lets users upgrade from any version of XP or Vista to the latest Windows OS, circumventing Microsoft's confusing upgrade path. It's titled, rather cunningly, Parallels Desktop Upgrade to Windows 7.

The software should come as a godsend for anyone delaying an upgrade because they're unwilling to do a fresh install -- which would involve losing settings and, potentially, data. Currently, fresh installations are required when using all versions of Windows XP and some versions of Windows Vista.

In addition, Parallels says its software will let users run applications that are incompatible with Windows 7. Programs will run "seamlessly", as if they were created natively for Windows 7, and unlike the rather limited "XP Mode" feature in Windows 7, the software doesn't require you re-install your old apps.

Parallels Desktop Upgrade to Windows 7 is available to buy now for £35. More details are available from the Parallels site.