Apple has unveiled significant changes in iOS 26 with a fresh design concept called Liquid Glass, marking the first major overhaul since iOS 7 in 2013. While new features are indeed part of the update, the emphasis on aesthetics greatly overshadows the functional enhancements.
Liquid Glass is designed to resemble real glass, incorporating translucency that allows light and colors to filter through, creating a visually dynamic experience. The app icons have a layered glass design, providing a hint of depth, while the Lock Screen introduces customizable Liquid Glass Control buttons and translucent notifications that blend seamlessly with the wallpaper.
The Home Screen features similar glass-like app icons and widgets, maintaining the transparent aesthetic even in the dock and search interface. Movement of the iPhone reveals subtle light reflections on icons and UI elements, enhancing the immersive feel of the Liquid Glass design.
Control Center, which initially faced criticism for being overly translucent, has seen adjustments for better readability. Now featuring a frosted glass look, users can still glimpse background content while navigating. Additionally, most of Apple’s apps have adopted elements of Liquid Glass, resulting in a uniform floating appearance for menus and navigation bars that emphasizes content.
The Safari app introduces a new Compact Tab Bar option, enhancing the browsing experience, while the Camera and Photos apps reflect significant usability shifts with updated navigation features. Despite some users praising the fresh look, others have voiced concerns about its usability, particularly the balance of translucency and text clarity. As Apple continues to refine these features throughout beta testing, feedback continues to shape the final design.
The Liquid Glass concept is not limited to iOS; it also extends to iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26, showcasing Apple’s commitment to ensuring a cohesive design across all devices. As users prepare for these updates in the fall, the anticipation for a visually stimulating experience grows.
Overall, while opinions on the Liquid Glass design may vary, it represents a bold step in Apple’s design philosophy, aiming to establish modernity and aesthetic appeal across its ecosystem of products.