Category: Blog

By Mario Canario – Technology Editor
September 19, 2025

Bad software can hide anywhere online. It can slow your PC. It can steal your money. You want a clean, short path to safety. This guide keeps it simple. Here you get computer virus explained in plain words, with signs to watch for, and steps you can take today.

Why this matters now

We all live on the web. We bank, shop, and store photos online. Because of that, criminals follow us there. They use tricks and code to get inside our devices. One click can be enough. Yet you can block most attacks with a few good habits. You will learn those here.

First, what is “malware”

Malware means malicious software. It is the big umbrella. A virus is only one kind of malware. Other kinds include worms, ransomware, Trojans, spyware, and more. Each kind spreads in its own way. But they all try to harm or exploit your device.

Core idea: how bad software gets in

Most attacks start with three simple paths:

1. A trick. A fake email link. A pop-up ad. A “free” download.
2. A weak spot. An outdated app. A broken plugin. A stolen password.
3. A bad device. An infected USB drive or a laptop that was already hit.

If you can close those three paths, you block most threats.

The big list: every common malware type explained

To make this easy to scan, each section tells you what it is, how it spreads, signs to look for, and a fast fix.

1) Virus

What it is: Code that attaches to files or apps. It needs a human to run the infected file.
How it spreads: Email attachments, shared files, pirated software.
Signs: Random errors, slowdowns, corrupted files, odd pop-ups.
Fast fix: Update your antivirus, run a full scan, delete or restore damaged files from backups.

2) Virus hoax

What it is: A fake warning about a threat that is not real.
How it spreads: Social posts, emails, pop-ups.
Signs: Scare language urging you to pay or call a number.
Fast fix: Do not click. Close the tab. Check with your security tool or a trusted IT pro.

3) Worm

What it is: A self-spreading threat that moves on its own.
How it spreads: Network holes, old software, open file shares, infected USB drives.
Signs: Your internet crawls, mass emails send without you, many devices slow at once.
Fast fix: Patch systems, unplug infected PCs from the network, scan all devices.

4) Ransomware

What it is: Malware that locks your files and asks for money to unlock them.
How it spreads: Phishing, bad downloads, weak remote desktop.
Signs: A ransom note on screen, files with new strange extensions.
Fast fix: Disconnect from the network, call IT or law enforcement, restore clean backups. Do not pay if you can avoid it.

5) Trojan

What it is: A fake “good” app that hides bad code. It relies on tricking you to install it.
How it spreads: Pirated games, “free” utilities, fake installers.
Signs: New toolbars, sudden ads, missing money or strange account logins.
Fast fix: Uninstall the app, run a deep scan, change passwords, enable multi-factor login.

6) RAT (Remote Access Trojan)

What it is: A Trojan that gives an attacker full remote control.
How it spreads: Same as a Trojan, plus cracked software.
Signs: Cursor moves by itself, mic or webcam turns on, files change with no action from you.
Fast fix: Disconnect from internet, scan offline with a bootable tool, rotate all passwords.

7) Cryptojacker

What it is: Code that steals your CPU/GPU power to mine coins.
How it spreads: A hacked website script or a sneaky app.
Signs: Fans roar, device runs hot, battery drains fast even when idle.
Fast fix: Close that site, remove shady extensions, scan, and patch your browser.

8) Keylogger

What it is: Malware that records what you type.
How it spreads: Malicious ads, infected apps, Trojans.
Signs: Unknown processes, strange network use, account takeovers.
Fast fix: Scan, then change passwords from a clean device. Turn on multi-factor login.

9) Logic bomb

What it is: Code that sleeps until a certain date or event, then it triggers.
How it spreads: Often planted by insiders or hidden in scripts.
Signs: Hard to spot. You might only notice after files are deleted or settings change.
Fast fix: Backups with version history, strong access rules, and code reviews for scripts.

10) Malvertising

What it is: Malicious ads on real sites.
How it spreads: Ad networks that were abused.
Signs: Scary pop-ups that push you to “scan now.”
Fast fix: Close the tab. Use an ad blocker from a trusted source. Keep your browser patched.

11) Wiper

What it is: Code built to destroy data.
How it spreads: Phishing, poisoned updates, or stolen admin access.
Signs: Files vanish. Systems fail to boot. Backups show errors.
Fast fix: Isolate, rebuild systems from clean images, then restore from offline backups.

12) Adware

What it is: Apps that blast ads and slow your device.
How it spreads: Bundled with “free” software.
Signs: Pop-ups, browser changes, sluggish apps.
Fast fix: Remove the app, reset the browser, and use reputable cleaners.

13) Spyware

What it is: Software that watches you and sends data out.
How it spreads: Trojans, risky downloads, bad extensions.
Signs: New icons, high network use, targeted ads that feel creepy.
Fast fix: Scan, remove, and review app permissions on phone and PC.

14) RAM scraper

What it is: Code that steals data from memory, often credit card info in point-of-sale systems.
How it spreads: Weak or unpatched terminals.
Signs: Fraud notices from banks, alerts from payment processors.
Fast fix: Patch POS systems, segment the network, and rotate all payment keys.

15) Rootkit

What it is: Deep malware that hides itself and protects other threats.
How it spreads: Exploits or admin-level Trojans.
Signs: Security tools fail, system settings change back by themselves.
Fast fix: Use a trusted boot disk. Sometimes the only cure is a full wipe and reinstall.

16) Backdoor

What it is: A secret way in that skips logins.
How it spreads: Often installed by another malware.
Signs: Unknown accounts, odd ports open, new scheduled tasks.
Fast fix: Change all passwords, remove unknown users, review firewall rules.

17) Botnet

What it is: A herd of infected devices run by one attacker.
How it spreads: Phishing, weak routers, old IoT gadgets.
Signs: Your device sends lots of traffic, your ISP warns you, or home internet crawls.
Fast fix: Reboot and patch routers, change Wi-Fi passwords, and scan all home devices.

18) Fileless malware

What it is: Threats that live in memory, not as files on disk.
How it spreads: Malicious scripts, PowerShell abuse, and phishing.
Signs: Hard to detect with old tools. You see strange system processes and spikes in RAM.
Fast fix: Use modern endpoint tools, log monitoring, and regular reboots with patches.

19) Malicious macro

What it is: A bad macro hidden in a document.
How it spreads: Email “invoices” and “reports” that ask you to enable macros.
Signs: Office asks to enable macros; then files appear or vanish.
Fast fix: Never enable macros for unknown files. Use cloud viewers. Scan before opening.

“Computer virus explained” in one chart

Use this small table to match the threat to a fast action.

Five pillars of daily protection

1. Update everything. Turn on auto updates for Windows, macOS, browsers, and phones.
2. Use one strong security suite. Keep real-time protection on.
3. Back up with version history. Keep one backup offline or in a secure cloud vault.
4. Harden logins. Use a password manager and multi-factor on email, bank, and cloud.
5. Click with care. Hover on links. When in doubt, type the site address yourself.

Because habits beat hacks, these five steps stop most attacks before they start.

Common mistakes and easy fixes

• “I’ll download that free movie.”
  That risky file can hide a Trojan or RAT. Instead, use legal streaming and trusted stores.
• “I’ll deal with updates later.”
  Delays leave open holes. Set auto updates and schedule a weekly restart.
• “I’ll use the same password for all.”
  One leak means all accounts are open. Use a manager to make unique passwords.
• “I clicked a pop-up that said ‘You’re infected.’”
  That is malvertising. Close the tab. Never call numbers in pop-ups.
• “Backups are too hard.”
  Use a simple cloud backup tool. Pick daily backups with file history.

Quick safety checklist

• Updates on for OS, browser, and apps
• Real-time antivirus on and up to date
• Password manager + multi-factor login
• Daily or weekly backups with version history
• Admin account used only when needed
• Macros disabled by default in Office apps
• Router firmware updated; Wi-Fi uses WPA3
• Unknown USB drives never plugged in
• Kids’ devices use standard (non-admin) accounts
• A printed recovery plan with key phone numbers

Save this list and check it once a month.

When to rebuild instead of repair

Sometimes cleanup takes longer than a fresh start. Rebuild if you see:

• A rootkit is suspected.
• A RAT keeps returning after you remove it.
• Ransomware hit more than one device.
• Your antivirus will not run or turns off by itself.

Back up your files first, then reinstall the OS from a clean image. Change passwords right after.

“Computer virus explained” for small business owners

If you run a shop or clinic, one small step can save a week of pain. Split your network. Keep point-of-sale, cameras, guest Wi-Fi, and office PCs on separate networks. Also, train your staff twice a year. Teach them to spot fake invoices, fake shipping notices, and “CEO” wire-fraud emails. Finally, make one person the owner of updates and backups. Clear roles lower risk.

Local help in Wisconsin

If you are in Milwaukee or nearby, we can help you set this up the right way the first time. Redbird Technology Solutions has more than 25 years serving local homes and small businesses. We set up safe networks, manage updates, install and maintain security cameras, and handle backups. If you want friendly advice, reach out for a free consultation. We keep it simple and local.

FAQs

What is the easiest way to remove a virus?
Run a full scan with a trusted security tool. Then restart and scan again. Finally, update your system and apps.

How do I know if I have ransomware?
You will lose access to files and see a note asking for money. Disconnect from the network right away and call a pro.

Is a worm the same as a virus?
No. A virus needs you to run a file. A worm spreads on its own across a network.

Can a Mac or phone get malware?
Yes. All modern devices can be hit. Keep them updated and install apps only from official stores.

Should I ever pay a ransom?
Experts advise against paying when possible. Restoring clean backups is safer and stops repeat attacks.

What is a fileless attack?
It runs in memory without saving files to disk. That makes it harder for old tools to spot. Modern endpoint tools help.

How do I protect my kids’ devices?
Create standard accounts, enable family filters, and keep updates on. Teach them to avoid random links and downloads.

Sources

• Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). “Malware.” 2024.
• National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). “Guide to Malware Incident Prevention and Handling.” 2023.
• Microsoft Security. “Ransomware protection and recovery.” 2024.
• FTC. “Protecting Personal Information: A Guide for Business.” 2024.

By Mario Canario – Technology Editor
September 19, 2025

The Amex Platinum Card major update is here, and it brings more benefits — along with a bigger price tag. American Express has refreshed both the personal Platinum Card® and the Business Platinum Card®, adding new credits, hotel perks, and a new design. At the same time, the annual fee has climbed to $895.

So, is the update worth it? Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can decide.

Why This Update Matters

Travel rewards cards are getting more expensive. Chase, United, and Southwest all raised fees this year. Now, Amex has followed suit. But Amex is also stacking on value.

According to Amex, the Platinum Card now offers over $3,500 in benefits each year if you use everything. That’s more than double the $1,500 value it claimed before【CNBC, 2025】.

Still, many cardholders wonder: “Will I actually use these credits?”

Key Changes to the Amex Platinum Card

Here are the biggest updates to the Amex Platinum Card major update:

1. Higher Annual Fee

• New fee: $895 per year
• Previous fee: $695
• First increase since 2021

The fee kicks in when your card renews on or after January 2, 2026.

2. Rewards Stay the Same

Earning points has not changed:

• 5x points on prepaid hotels booked through Amex Travel
• 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines or Amex Travel (up to $500,000 a year)
• 1x points on everything else

Membership Rewards points are still valuable but work best if you book lots of travel through Amex Travel.

3. Bigger Hotel Credits

This is one of the biggest upgrades:

• Old credit: $200 per year
• New credit: $600 per year ($300 every 6 months)

You must book prepaid stays through Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection. You also get Leaders Club Sterling Status with The Leading Hotels of the World, which means upgrades and perks at 400+ luxury hotels.

4. New Annual Credits

Amex has added several new credits that could help cover the higher fee:

• Dining: $400 yearly ($100 each quarter) with Resy restaurants
• Digital entertainment: $300 yearly with Disney+, Hulu, YouTube Premium, YouTube TV, Peacock, WSJ, and more
• Lululemon: $300 yearly ($75 each quarter)
• Uber One: $120 yearly membership credit plus existing Uber Cash
• Oura Ring: $200 yearly credit for purchases at OuraRing.com

Note: enrollment required for most credits.

5. The Business Platinum Card Update

The Business Platinum Card® is also part of the Amex Platinum Card major update.

New fee: $895 per year.

Added benefits include:

• Hotel credits: $600 yearly ($300 every 6 months)
• Flight + One AP credits: Up to $3,600 per year if you spend $250,000
• Dell credit: $1,150 yearly with Dell (was $200)
• Adobe credit: $250 yearly

Rewards also improved:

• 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels via Amex Travel
• 2x points on key business categories and purchases over $5,000 (up to $2M yearly)
• 1x points on everything else

Comparing Value: Platinum vs. Sapphire Reserve

Here’s a quick look at how Amex stacks up against Chase’s Sapphire Reserve after both increased fees:

Amex gives more credits, but Chase offers broader rewards categories.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not enrolling: Many credits require you to enroll first. Forgetting means you lose value.
• Overspending: Don’t buy things you don’t need just to “use” credits.
• Booking outside Amex Travel: You miss out on 5x points if you don’t book through Amex.

Quick Checklist: Is Amex Platinum Right for You?

• Do you travel often?
• Can you use $600 in hotel credits yearly?
• Do you dine at Resy restaurants or use Uber?
• Will you use entertainment credits like YouTube Premium or Hulu?
• Are you okay with a high $895 fee?

If most of these are yes, the Amex Platinum Card major update could be worth it.

Local Note for Milwaukee Readers

If you’re in Milwaukee and thinking about smart ways to handle tech, IT, or even secure payments, Redbird Technology Solutions can help. With more than 25 years of experience, they offer IT services and camera solutions that keep your business safe and running smoothly. Reach out today for a free consultation.

FAQs

1. How much is the new Amex Platinum fee?
$895 per year starting January 2, 2026.

2. What is the biggest new benefit?
A $600 hotel credit for prepaid bookings through Amex Travel.

3. Do rewards change with the update?
No, rewards remain the same at 5x on travel and 1x on everything else.

4. What new credits are added?
Dining ($400), entertainment ($300), Lululemon ($300), Uber One ($120), and Oura Ring ($200).

5. Is the Amex Platinum worth it now?
It depends. If you travel often and use the credits, it can more than pay for itself.

6. Does the Business Platinum also change?
Yes, it now has a $895 fee and up to $3,600 in new annual credits for flights and business tools.

7. How do I maximize Amex Platinum benefits?
Always enroll for credits, book travel through Amex, and track your quarterly credits.

Sources

• CNBC – Amex revamps Platinum Card with higher fee and new perks, Sept 2025. Accessed Sept 19, 2025.
• American Express – Official Platinum Card benefits page, 2025. Accessed Sept 19, 2025.
• NerdWallet – Chase Sapphire Reserve vs Amex Platinum, Aug 2025. Accessed Sept 19, 2025.

By Mario Canario, Technology Editor
Last updated: September 17, 2025

Why Alibaba’s shares jump after it lands a major customer for its AI chips

Alibaba’s stock soared after reports confirmed that China Unicom, the nation’s second-largest telecom provider, will use Alibaba’s AI chips in a massive new data center project. The news sparked strong investor confidence, pushing Alibaba’s Hong Kong-listed shares up more than 5% and its U.S.-listed stock over 2% in premarket trading.

What makes this deal important

Boost for domestic AI chips

China has been pushing to replace U.S. technology with homegrown alternatives. This partnership shows Alibaba is making progress with its chip unit, T-Head.

Big customer impact

China Unicom’s decision signals trust in Alibaba’s technology. It also gives Alibaba a chance to prove its chips can support real-world applications like telecom and data centers.

Alibaba’s AI chips explained

What is T-Head?

T-Head, also known as Pingtouge, is Alibaba’s semiconductor division. It builds custom AI chips designed to power data-heavy tasks such as machine learning and cloud services.

Why Alibaba doesn’t sell chips directly

Unlike Nvidia, Alibaba doesn’t sell its chips in stores. Instead, companies like China Unicom use them by purchasing Alibaba Cloud services. This “chips-as-a-service” model gives Alibaba steady revenue while making the chips widely available.

China Unicom’s role in the partnership

Building a massive data center

China Unicom is building a large new data center in Qinghai Province. This project will use Alibaba’s chips alongside processors from other Chinese firms like MetaX and Biren Technology.

Why telecoms matter for AI growth

Telecom companies run vast networks that generate and process enormous amounts of data. Partnering with them allows Alibaba to showcase its chips’ strength in handling large-scale computing.

Market reaction and stock impact

Stronger investor confidence

News of the deal quickly boosted Alibaba’s market value. Investors see the deal as a sign that Alibaba is regaining momentum in AI after facing stiff competition.

Comparing stock moves

• Alibaba: +5% in Hong Kong, +2% in U.S. premarket
• Nvidia: –1% after reports China restricted purchases of certain U.S. chips

This shows how one company’s gain can come at another’s expense in the global AI race.

Why this matters for China’s AI strategy

Reducing reliance on Nvidia

China has limited access to Nvidia’s top AI chips due to U.S. restrictions. By investing in Alibaba, MetaX, and Biren, China hopes to secure its own supply chain.

Supporting local innovation

Deals like this encourage more funding and research into domestic semiconductors. They also help China close the gap with global leaders like Nvidia and AMD.

Risks and challenges for Alibaba

Lack of transparency on performance

It’s still unclear if Alibaba’s chips can match Nvidia in speed and efficiency. Without independent benchmarks, customers may remain cautious.

Supply chain pressures

Building chips requires complex manufacturing, often involving global suppliers. Restrictions could limit how fast Alibaba scales production.

Growing competition

Other Chinese chipmakers, like Huawei’s Ascend series, are also fighting for market share. Alibaba will need to prove its chips stand out.

Lessons for global tech watchers

Shifting power in semiconductors

The AI chip market is no longer dominated by just U.S. firms. Chinese companies are stepping up with viable alternatives.

New business models

Alibaba’s “chips via cloud” approach could become a model for others. Instead of selling hardware, companies may increasingly tie chips to cloud platforms.

Quick summary table

What this means for businesses in Milwaukee

If you’re a business owner in Milwaukee, you may wonder why this matters. Global AI chip supply impacts the cloud services we all rely on. Faster chips mean better performance for tools, apps, and cybersecurity solutions.

That’s where Redbird Technology Solutions can help. With more than 25 years of experience in IT and security, we guide local businesses through technology changes. If you want to explore how AI and cloud solutions can improve your operations, reach out today for a free consultation.

FAQs

What caused Alibaba’s shares to rise?
News that China Unicom will use Alibaba’s AI chips in a major data center project.

What division makes Alibaba’s chips?
Alibaba’s semiconductor arm called T-Head, also known as Pingtouge.

Does Alibaba sell its chips directly?
No. Customers access them through Alibaba Cloud services.

Why is China pushing domestic chips?
To reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers like Nvidia due to trade restrictions.

Who are Alibaba’s competitors in AI chips?
MetaX, Biren Technology, and Huawei in China; Nvidia and AMD globally.

What was Nvidia’s stock reaction?
It fell around 1% after reports of China limiting purchases of its chips.

Sources

• CNBC – “Alibaba shares jump after it lands a major AI chip customer” – Aug 2025 [Accessed Sept 17, 2025]
• Financial Times – “China restricts use of Nvidia AI chips” – Aug 2025 [Accessed Sept 17, 2025]

In today’s world, businesses of all sizes rely on computers, networks, and digital tools to get work done. But not every business has the time or staff to manage all this tech on their own. That’s where Managed Service Providers, or MSPs, come in.

A Managed Service Provider is a company that helps other businesses manage their technology. They make sure your computers, networks, data, and security are running smoothly, even when you’re asleep. In this article, we’ll explain what MSPs do, why they matter, and how they can help you. If you’re a small to mid-size business owner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, this guide is especially for you.

What is a Managed Service Provider (MSP)?

A Managed Service Provider is a third-party company that takes care of your IT (information technology) systems. This includes things like:

• Keeping your network working
• Making sure your data is safe
• Helping with tech issues
• Updating software
• Monitoring your systems 24/7

Think of an MSP as your IT team in the cloud. They work remotely, often through the internet, to help businesses stay online, safe, and productive.

Who Uses Managed Service Providers?

Many small and mid-size businesses (SMBs) use MSPs because they don’t have the money or staff to run a full-time IT department. But big companies and even government offices use them too.

Some examples include:

• A small accounting firm that needs secure data backups
• A local store that needs help managing their security cameras
• A large school district needing tech support for hundreds of devices

What Services Do MSPs Provide?

Here are some of the most common services MSPs offer:

Types of Managed Service Providers

MSPs can specialize in different areas. Here are the main types:

1. Pure-Play MSPs – Focus on basic services like monitoring and alerts
2. Staffing MSPs – Help larger companies with hiring and support
3. High-Level MSPs – Offer complete IT solutions including cloud, security, and compliance

Some MSPs also specialize in industries like:

• Healthcare (HIPAA compliance)
• Finance (data protection)
• Retail (POS systems and inventory tech)
• Legal (secure document storage)

How Does a Managed Service Provider Work?

MSPs usually start by looking at your current IT setup. They check what’s working and what’s not. Then they recommend a plan that fits your goals.

Most MSPs work under a contract called an SLA (Service Level Agreement). This agreement explains:

• What services they will provide
• How fast they will respond to problems
• What systems they will manage
• How much you will pay

MSP Pricing Models

MSPs offer different pricing options based on your needs:

These are often billed monthly, giving you predictable costs and support when you need it.

What Are the Benefits of a Managed Service Provider?

Working with an MSP offers many benefits. Here are some key reasons businesses love them:

1. Saves Money

Hiring a full-time IT team can be expensive. An MSP gives you expert help for a flat monthly fee.

2. 24/7 Support

MSPs monitor your systems day and night to catch problems before they become big issues.

3. Expert Advice

MSPs are tech pros. They help you choose the right software, set up secure systems, and follow IT best practices.

4. Stronger Security

Cybersecurity is a big deal today. MSPs install and manage firewalls, antivirus tools, and backups to protect your business.

5. Helps You Grow

With an MSP handling your tech, you can focus on growing your business instead of fixing problems.

What Are the Challenges?

While MSPs are helpful, they aren’t perfect. Here are a few things to watch out for:

• Slow Response Times – Make sure your SLA includes quick help when needed
• Limited Services – Not all MSPs offer cybersecurity or compliance support
• Upselling – Be cautious of MSPs pushing tools you don’t really need
• Data Control – If the MSP uses special tools, you may not have full access to your own data

Real Stats and Trends

• The MSP market size is expected to grow to $416.62 billion by 2028, up from $243 billion in 2021 (source: Fortune Business Insights).
• 60% of SMBs have been the victim of a cyberattack. MSPs help reduce this risk by managing your security tools (source: Verizon Data Breach Report).
• 84% of companies say working with an MSP has improved their operations (source: CompTIA).

MSP vs Break/Fix IT

Here’s a quick comparison to help you see the difference:

Why Use a Local MSP in Milwaukee?

If you’re in Milwaukee, working with a local MSP like Redbird Technology Solutions has added benefits:

• Faster onsite support
• Local knowledge and experience
• Easy face-to-face meetings
• Customized plans for local business needs

Real-Life Example

Let’s say you own a small bakery in Milwaukee. You rely on point-of-sale systems, online orders, and cloud-based inventory. If your system goes down, you lose sales.

A local MSP can:

• Monitor your system 24/7
• Set up automatic backups
• Help protect your customer data
• Fix problems fast (in person if needed)

This means fewer headaches and more time to focus on baking.

Conclusion: Should You Work With an MSP?

If you’re tired of fixing tech problems on your own or don’t have the staff to keep up, a Managed Service Provider might be the answer. Whether you need help managing your network, keeping your data safe, or staying compliant with rules, an MSP can help.

Work With Us

Redbird Technology Solutions is a trusted IT company in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, helping small to mid-size businesses with IT support, cybersecurity, and security camera systems. Whether you need help managing your tech or want better protection for your business, we’re here for you.

Contact Redbird Technology Solutions today for a free consultation and find out how we can support your business with reliable, local, expert IT services.

Apple’s WWDC 2025 just wrapped up, and this year’s biggest highlight is something they call Liquid Glass. But what exactly is it? And is it worth the hype? In this article, we’ll break down what Liquid Glass means, how it works across Apple devices, and what it means for you—whether you use an iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, Vision Pro, or all of them.

We’ll also share thoughts on Apple’s new design, new features, and how it all compares to competitors like Google and Microsoft. You’ll find all the details in simple language, with helpful explanations along the way.

What Is Liquid Glass?

Liquid Glass is Apple’s new design system introduced at WWDC 2025. It changes how your apps and screens look. Instead of flat colors or solid boxes, Apple now makes many parts of its system look like transparent, frosted glass.

Imagine looking at your phone and seeing the background lightly blur behind every app or menu. That’s Liquid Glass. It’s not just on the iPhone—it’s everywhere: iPad, Mac, Watch, and even Apple TV.

Apple says it makes your device look more “unified and modern.” But it also raises concerns about how easy it is to read or interact with all that glass.

iOS 26 and iPhone Changes

Let’s start with the iPhone. Apple renamed the operating system to iOS 26 to match the year. All Apple platforms—iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS—also now use version 26.

Lock Screen and Icons

• The lock screen now shows a giant glassy clock, which changes size based on your wallpaper.
• Icons on the home screen have been slightly updated, and now you can make them look transparent if you want to use the “clear mode.”

Camera App

The Camera app has a big redesign:

• Only photo and video buttons are visible by default.
• Other modes like Portrait or Slow-Mo are hidden and need to be swiped to access.
• Frame rate and resolution settings (like 30fps or 60fps) are now under a small icon in the top corner.

This cleaner design looks good, but it might be confusing for users who are used to everything being up front.

Phone and FaceTime Apps

Apple added smart features:

• Call Screening now answers unknown calls and gives you a transcript before deciding to let the call through.
• Hold Assist waits on hold for you and alerts you when a real person picks up.
• FaceTime has a new home screen and live translation. If someone speaks another language, their words are translated in real time.

iMessage Upgrades

Texting gets better too:

• You can now add polls in group chats.
• You’ll see who’s typing in real time.
• Custom backgrounds for chats are also now an option.

iPadOS 26: A True Laptop Replacement?

For the first time, the iPad starts acting like a full computer.

Window Controls and Menu Bar

• Apps can now float in resizable windows.
• Each window has a three-dot button like a Mac, so you can minimize or adjust it.
• Apple even added a menu bar at the top, just like macOS. It includes File, Edit, View, and Help options.

File Management and Background Work

• The Files app lets you sort, preview, and organize files like on a Mac.
• You can export videos in Final Cut Pro without needing to keep the app open.
• There’s also now an audio input selector for choosing microphones in any app.

These changes are huge for anyone using an iPad for school, work, or content creation.

macOS 26 (Tahoe): Clear but Questionable?

macOS also gets the Liquid Glass look. The update is called macOS 26 “Tahoe”.

New Look

• The menu bar is now fully transparent, making the desktop look bigger.
• Apps like Control Center have a glassy redesign.
• Widgets and the dock can now also be transparent.

Spotlight Gets a Power Boost

• Spotlight search now acts like a productivity tool.
• You can run shortcuts, open files, and even start app actions—just like the popular app Raycast.
• It can’t do everything yet (like full chatbot conversations), but it’s moving in that direction.

watchOS 26: Faster, Glassier, Smarter

watchOS 26 follows the Liquid Glass trend. The biggest new features are:

• Wrist Flick Gesture: Flick your wrist to dismiss alerts or calls.
• Workout Buddy: A virtual coach that gives updates and encouragement during workouts.

Still missing? Group fitness challenges. Maybe next year.

visionOS 26: Widgets, Windows, and Jupiter

visionOS also joins the Liquid Glass club. Here’s what’s new:

• Widgets can now float anywhere, and you can customize their size and depth.
• Your apps and widgets will now stay where you put them, even after a reboot.
• Added support for PlayStation VR2 controllers.
• New environment: Jupiter’s moon with the planet overhead.

They also improved personas, the digital versions of you used in FaceTime. These now look more realistic.

Apple TV (tvOS 26): Small Changes

Not a lot has changed here. Icons now shimmer, and there’s more content. The Liquid Glass look is there but harder to notice.

Where’s Siri and Apple Intelligence?

Now here’s the twist. While competitors like Google talk non-stop about AI, Apple barely mentioned Siri (just twice in the keynote). They didn’t even push their AI brand “Apple Intelligence” much.

But that doesn’t mean there was no AI. Apple added:

• Live translation during calls and chats.
• On-device AI tools for transcription, summarizing, and language help.
• Tools for developers to build AI into their apps.

It’s not the flashiest AI, but it’s private, local, and fast.

Apple says the “big Siri update” is coming in 2026. They’re taking their time, possibly to avoid mistakes seen in rushed AI releases.

Is Liquid Glass a Good Idea?

Liquid Glass makes Apple’s system look modern. But it may hurt readability. Many menus and notifications are now clear or semi-transparent. That looks nice, but it can make it hard to read text, especially when backgrounds are busy.

Apple says the system adapts by giving light backgrounds to dark text and vice versa. But it doesn’t always work perfectly.

Feature Comparison Table

Was WWDC 2025 a Win?

WWDC 2025 was different. Apple skipped the big AI buzzwords and instead gave us real, usable features. The Liquid Glass design is a big visual change. Some will love it, others might find it harder to use.

But across the board, Apple made each device more useful, more connected, and more capable. Whether you’re into design, productivity, or communication, there’s something for you here.

Get in Touch

Need help navigating new Apple tech at home or in your business?

Redbird Technology Solutions is your local partner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. With over 25 years of experience, we help small to mid-size businesses with everything from IT support to cloud security. We also offer professional security camera installation for both homes and commercial buildings.

Contact us today for a free consultation and let us make technology simple for you.