Three simple silly questions about Parallels Desktop on Mac silicon computers

[StevenG7]

Forgive my ignorance, as I know the answers are buried in the forums and support articles, but I've spent hours looking and still am not sure:

• I have an Intel iMac, running Tahoe (macOS 26). I currently run Windows 11 under Parallels on it. Apple is dropping support for Intel computers in their next software release.

1. If I buy a new Apple Silicon-based iMac, when macOS 27 is released, will I be able to run macOS 26 on the silicon-based iMac under Parallels?
2. I run the Intel version of Windows 11 under Parallels on my current Intel Mac. Do I need a different version of Windows 11 to run under Parallels under Apple Silicon? If so, how do I get it and would I have to purchase the different Windows version or would it recognize my current Windows license?
3. I currently also occasionally run High Sierra (macOS 10.13.6) under Parallels on my Intel Mac to be able to run some programs which don't run on later macOS versions. Would I be able to run High Sierra under Parallels in an Apple silicon-based Mac?

 

[IlkkaP]

2. Yes, you need a different version of Windows, namely Windows 11 on Arm. That version can be downloaded as part of the virtual machine creation under Parallels Desktop. It can also be used without activation for unlimited time. The only features missing without activation are some personalization features (like desktop background image etc.). Your current Intel license key most likely doesn't work on Arm.