Done and finished with Parallels

[valiar]

I've been using Parallels since version 1.0.
To be completely fair, the software itself always just worked.

However, since version 6 or so they started bombarding their users with ads. Yes, you read that correct: even if you are a paid user of Parallels, they will show you ads on program startup.
Again, and again, and again.
The "don't show this again" checkbox will disable that particular ad, but you can rest assured they will come back with the next marketing blitz. I am attaching a screenshot from their support forum. The "disable ads" threads are the most active.

Starting around the same time, the company started offering "extended download service" with every purchase of Parallels. For just $6.95 you will be able to re-download Parallels from the link in the email they sent you.
Of course, you can download it anyway, without paying $6.95, which makes this $6.95 extended download business a scam.

Version 7 has a links for a "convenience store" and for a trial version of Kaspersky for Mac embedded prominently into the File menu. No, this is not for a Windows antivirus. This is for a three-month version that runs on Mac OS (and then asks for more money).

Upgrade to the latest version 8 costs $50. For that, you get "supported" Windows 8 and Retina support.

As a cherry on top, you are offered to buy (drumroll) MacKeeper. Yes, the infamous scareware from Ukraine that littered half the web with annoying ads.


Today I paid $49.95 to switch to Vmware. I am done and finished with Parallels, and will never, ever go back. Good bye, and thanks for all the fish.

[justperry]

That's sad but couldn't you just block it access to the net with an app like Little Snitch?

I also hate adds in software and if you paid for it, it makes it even worse.

[dZp]

Originally Posted by valiar

The "don't show this again" checkbox will disable that particular ad, but you can rest assured they will come back with the next marketing blitz.

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthre...3#post15280503
In Terminal, paste the following command and press enter/return

defaults write com.parallels.Parallels\ Desktop ProductPromo.ForcePromoOff -bool YES

Problem solved. No more ads!

[MCAsan]

Now that I am retired and away from Windows....the thought of running Windows on my rMBP would make me want to put the rMBP in the diskwasher on sanitize.

[valiar]

Originally Posted by dZp

http://forums.macrumors.com/showthre...3#post15280503
In Terminal, paste the following command and press enter/return

defaults write com.parallels.Parallels\ Desktop ProductPromo.ForcePromoOff -bool YES

Problem solved. No more ads!

Quoting for truth. I hope this helps everyone still on Parallels. This specific tip is eagerly deleted by admins on Parallels' own forums.