VMware has released the updated Fusion 4.1 that contains many bug fixes and improvements over the last version of the virtualization software. The biggest improvements it brings is the ability to run non-server versions of Leopard (Mac OS X 10.5) and Snow Leopard (Mac OS X 10.6).
Previously VMware Fusion supported only the non-server version of Lion, as the Apple’s OS licensing policy specified that only server version of Leopard and Snow Leopard could be run in virtualization mode. Despite of the fact that the policy didn’t specify anything regarding the non-server version, it was assumed that the policy prohibited the action
Even though the Fusion software can run the client version of Leopard and Snow Leopard, there was still fear that Apple might come after the software company and sue them. So then VMware tackled the situation by thinking different and came up with a unique solution.
If the user tries to install the client versions of Leopard or Snow Leopard, a dialog box appears( shown in the picture above) that gives users the option to decide whether the OS is licensed to run or not. This act saves VMware from being the culprit as it gave the whole burden for users to carry of making the decision of running the client mode legality through verifying the license..
When a user tries to install Leopard or Snow Leopard in Fusion 4.1, a dialog box appears that says, “Verify that the operating system is licensed to run in a virtual machine.” In essence, this removes VMware from the position of having to evaluate and enforce Apple’s operating-system license, and instead leaves the decision in the hands of users.
Lets see if the smart move by VMware is questioned by the authorities at Apple or not, but in the mean time just by agreeing that the OS is licensed to run, you can freely install the OS. You can read the documentation by VMware HERE.
[via MacWorld]
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