Apple Adjusts 'Liquid Glass' Design for iOS 26 in Latest Beta Release

In a significant update to its iOS 26 beta, Apple Inc. has made notable adjustments to the 'Liquid Glass' design introduced at the World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025. The latest beta version, released on July 7, 2025, features a reduction in the transparency that characterized the initial rollout, addressing concerns raised by users regarding readability and usability.

The company, headquartered in Cupertino, California, is known for its innovative approach to software design. The 'Liquid Glass' aesthetic was initially celebrated for its modern look, which incorporated translucent elements across various interface components such as navigation bars and notifications. However, feedback from early testers indicated that the design often compromised clarity, with elements bleeding into one another, particularly within the iPhone's Control Center.

Dr. Sarah Johnson, a prominent user experience researcher at Stanford University, noted that while Apple’s design intentions were aimed at creating a sleek and contemporary interface, the practical implications of visual clarity must not be overlooked. "Usability should always be prioritized above aesthetics, particularly in software that is utilized daily by millions," she stated in her analysis published on June 30, 2025, in the Journal of User Interface Design.

In response to user feedback, Apple’s second beta release in June saw the introduction of a darker blur effect for the Control Center and an optional High Contrast Mode, which allowed users to enhance the visibility of interface elements. The subsequent beta, released in early July, further emphasized this trend, with a pronounced increase in contrast in navigation bars and buttons. Allan Yu, a designer and co-founder of the app studio Output, expressed mixed feelings about the adjustments. "While the changes improve readability, they detract from the uniqueness of the original design. It feels like Apple is dialing back on what made the Liquid Glass concept exciting," he commented.

The evolution of the 'Liquid Glass' design sparked discussions among industry professionals. Serhii Popov, a senior software engineer at MacPaw, expressed disappointment with the latest changes, stating, "I preferred the original design language. Customization options would enhance user experience without compromising creativity."

As developers continue to test the beta versions, the potential for further refinements remains. Apple typically releases its finalized software in September, coinciding with the launch of new iPhone models. This timeline suggests that the company is under pressure to strike a balance between aesthetic innovation and practical usability.

Looking ahead, the adjustments made in the latest beta version may set a precedent for future software designs and updates from Apple. The ongoing feedback loop between developers and users is crucial for refining the user experience, with many anticipating that Apple will find a middle ground that honors its design ethos while addressing user needs.

As the technology landscape evolves, Apple’s approach to interface design will likely influence industry standards, emphasizing the importance of user-centered design principles. The outcome of this beta testing phase could redefine the visual language of iOS platforms for years to come.