For many years, Apple has been producing laptops, desktops, and mobile devices with Intel processors. But in November 2020, during a virtual event, Apple introduced its first-ever MacBook model powered by an ARM-based Apple Silicon processor—the M1 chip. The M1 chip brought numerous improvements, including high-performance cores, a unified memory architecture, and hardware acceleration for machine learning tasks. As a result, it has been praised for its power efficiency, advanced security features, and fast performance.
However, some existing software and applications were not compatible with the new M1 architecture, which led to a slowdown in productivity for some users. This is where VMware stepped in to create Horizon Client, a solution that supports ARM-based Macs with native features. This article will discuss how Horizon Client enables users to run virtual desktops on ARM-based Macs, and the latest updates on its features to improve end-user experience.
Introduction to Apple’s ARM-based MacBook and Its Performance Gains
The new MacBook, powered by the Apple Silicon M1 chip, boasts the world’s fastest CPU core and integrated graphics, resulting in a significant performance gain over its Intel-powered predecessors. The M1 chip is capable of running demanding workflows such as video editing and gaming at a much faster speed than before. However, the switch to the ARM architecture also meant that many applications were not initially compatible with the new MacBook. Applications needed to be updated, or new versions of the software needed to be created to work with the new M1 chip.
Introduction of Rosetta for existing applications during the rollout of Apple’s ARM chips
As Apple rolled out its ARM chips, it also introduced Rosetta, a translation software that allows applications designed for the Intel architecture to run on the new ARM-based architecture. However, some applications may not run as fast as they would on an Intel-based Mac, and some may not run at all. This is where VMware’s Horizon Client comes in, providing native support for virtual desktops on ARM-based Macs.
The Horizon 2212 update introduced native support for ARM-based Macs
In late 2022, VMware released Horizon 2212, an update that introduced native support for ARM-based Macs. With the update, Horizon Client can run virtual desktops natively on ARM-based Macs without needing to use Rosetta. This ensures a more seamless and efficient experience for users, particularly those working with virtual desktops.
The latest updates in Horizon Client 2303 provide key features that natively support ARM
In the latest release of Horizon Client, version 2303, VMware has introduced key features that enhance the user experience on ARM-based Macs. These key features include the Microsoft Teams Optimization Pack for a more streamlined experience and VMware Blast Codec which provides improved performance. This means users can now work on virtual desktops without any lag or slowdown, and video conferencing is now much clearer and smoother.
Explanation of Universal macOS binary and its ability to run natively on both Apple silicon and Intel-based Macs
A Universal macOS binary is a compiled application that contains code for both Apple silicon and Intel-based Macs in a single binary. This means that the same application can run natively on both types of Macs. When the application is launched, it detects the architecture of the Mac it is running on and runs the appropriate code. This ensures optimal performance on the respective architecture and provides a seamless user experience for all Mac users, regardless of their Mac’s architecture. Supporting Universal binaries is important for developers, as it simplifies the distribution and installation of their software and increases its compatibility with a wider range of Macs.
The Horizon Client also supports the Universal macOS binary, which allows it to run on both Apple silicon and Intel-based Macs, providing great flexibility for users. If an application has the Universal macOS binary, it can run natively on both types of processors, providing users with fast and efficient performance.
To determine if an app supports both Apple Silicon and Intel processors, you can check its “Kind” listing. Open the Finder window, go to the Applications folder, and select the app you want to check. Press Command + I to open the “Get Info” window, where you can find the Kind field under the General section. If it says “Universal”, the app supports both Apple Silicon and Intel processors. If it says “Intel”, it only runs on Intel processors and needs Rosetta translation on Apple Silicon Macs. If it says “Apple”, it only runs on Apple Silicon and cannot run on Intel processors.
Users can check if an application supports both Apple Silicon and Intel processors through its “Kind” listing. If the Kind is listed as “Application (Universal)”, it means the app supports both Apple Silicon and Intel processors and will automatically install the native version for the appropriate architecture.
VMware is committed to continuously improving the Horizon Client for macOS to enhance virtual desktop experiences
VMware is committed to constantly enhancing the Horizon Client for macOS to provide users with the best possible virtual desktop experience. The company will continue to improve features and deliver native support for ARM-based Macs to ensure users have the most efficient, flexible, and seamless experience possible.
Promotion of Horizon Resources on the Tech Zone for additional learning opportunities
For those who are interested in learning more about Horizon, VMware offers “Horizon Resources” on the Tech Zone that provide additional information and resources to help users optimize their virtual desktop experiences. These resources include videos, technical guides, best practice documents, and webinars.
Introducing Jasmine Bai as the Product Line Manager responsible for Horizon Linux VDI and the Linux client
Jasmine Bai is the Product Line Manager for Horizon Linux VDI and Linux client at VMware. She has been instrumental in developing the Horizon Client for macOS and ensuring that it supports both Apple Silicon and Intel processors.
Brief background information on Jasmine Bai’s previous experience before joining VMware in 2019
Prior to joining VMware in 2019, Jasmine Bai worked as a Senior Solutions Manager at Polycom, where she helped design and implement solutions for unified communications. With over a decade of experience in product management, she has a deep understanding of the software and technology industries, and a passion for delivering excellent user experiences.
VMware’s Horizon Client provides an efficient solution for users who work with virtual desktops on ARM-based Macs. With its native support for ARM-based architecture and the Universal macOS binary, users can enjoy fast and efficient performance without any lag or slowdown. VMware is committed to enhancing the Horizon Client to provide more updates and features that will deliver an even better virtual desktop experience. With Jasmine Bai leading the Horizon Linux VDI and Linux client team, we can expect even greater advancements in the future.