Use Windows/Mac software on your iPad with Parallels Access

Parallels Access lets you control your PC or Mac from your iPad over Wifi or 3G. You can use all your desktop apps like Microsoft Office, and the app has specially adapted gesture control to make using them easier on the touchscreen.

Parallels Access requires a client to be installed on your PC or Mac, and the app on your iPad. Setup is painless – you only need to make an account, and sign in on both devices, then you will see your computer appear on Parallels Access.

The app adapts your desktop to fit the iPad better – you don’t just see your entire desktop. with Parallels you view one window at a time, and can access others from a small menu on the side of the screen. Apps work more or less as you would imagine, and when I tried it, I found it was pretty responsive.

This is version 1.0, and there are still some problems to iron out. The first time I disconnected, my Windows taskbar disappeared completely, and it took some time for my desktop to return to normal. Despite the adaptation of touch controls for the desktop environment, they are not perfect, and you do have to touch with care sometimes. Nevertheless, it’s impressive being able to do so much, so easily from your iPad.

Parallels Access gives you a 90 day trial, after which is costs $79.99 to continue using it.

Download Parallels Access here.