Canonical announced the availability of Parallels Workstation for Linux through the Ubuntu Partner Repository -- giving Ubuntu users the ability to quickly find, install and run Parallels software.

The Ubuntu Partner Repository and associated services from Canonical allow software providers to make their software readily available to Ubuntu users. The repository supplements the thousands of free and open source applications available through other Ubuntu repositories, and contains both proprietary and open source applications provided by Ubuntu Partners.

Parallels Workstation for Linux allows users to easily run multiple operating systems side-by-side on a single computer without rebooting. The deal with Parallels makes the desktop virtualization product more readily available to Ubuntu users -- residing in a drop down menu on the operating system.

"We have always been committed to providing Ubuntu users with choice," said Randy Linnell, consumer services manager, Canonical. "Parallels is excellent virtualization technology which many users have requested. Being able to come to a commercial arrangement to make it available is great for Ubuntu users and the project itself. We look forward to users supporting it."

"Partnering with Canonical is a great way for Parallels to bring user friendly desktop virtualization to the ever-expanding global community of Ubuntu users," said, Bryan Goode, director of business development, Parallels. "Parallels Software provides Ubuntu users with added flexibility to any program from almost any operating system, without having to give up their Ubuntu desktop, even for a few minutes."

Trial versions of the Parallels Workstation for Linux software are available through the Add/Remove function in Ubuntu and keys for permanent use can be purchased directly through shop.canonical.com or at www.parallels.com.