VMware Fusion 12 announced with support for macOS Big Sur, eGPUs, and more

VMware today announced 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.

Fusion 12 brings several new updates and enhancements, including eGPU compatibility, support for container-based applications built with Kubernetes, DirectX 11 and OpenGL 4.1 support, improved sandbox rendering engine security, improved access controls and more.

VMware has also prepared Fusion 12 for the upcoming launch of macOS Big Sur, which will continue Apple’s transition to ending support for kernel extensions. VMware says that Fusion 12 will continue to run 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 its price with a new Fusion 12 Player licensing structure that is free for personal use. Fusion 12 Player users wishing to use the software for commercial use may purchase a license for $ 149, with an upgrade license available for $ 89 for those currently running Fusion 10 or 11.

A professional-level Fusion 12 Pro offers some extra features for power users and allows you to run on up to three devices (including Windows or Linux PCs running VMware’s Workstation Pro), priced at $ 199 for a new license or $ 99 as upgrade. Discounted educational prizes will also be available for Fusion 12, though many students will also be able to take advantage of the free license for personal use.

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 has not yet announced a specific release date for Fusion 12 Player and Fusion 12 Pro, other than a general time frame of later this fiscal quarter, which runs through October for VMware. They will be available through VMware’s online store and other outlets.

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