Apple Enhances Liquid Glass Interface in iOS 26 Beta 2 Update

Apple Inc. has released the second beta version of its upcoming iOS 26, addressing significant user feedback related to the Liquid Glass interface, a new design paradigm introduced at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025. This update, made public on June 23, 2025, aims to improve readability and usability, particularly for the Control Center on iPhones and iPads, which had received criticism for its opacity and visual clutter.

The Liquid Glass interface, characterized by its optical qualities mimicking glass, has been a contentious topic among early adopters. Users expressed concerns that the semi-transparent background of the Control Center made it difficult to distinguish buttons and sliders from the underlying Home Screen icons. According to Holly, a tech enthusiast on Twitter, many users found the interface "nearly unreadable," highlighting how the design, although modern, compromised functionality.

In response to this criticism, Apple has made adjustments to the background blur effect in the Control Center, which aims to enhance visual clarity by better obscuring the Home Screen content beneath. This change has been confirmed by multiple sources, including user demonstrations on social media platforms, showcasing a marked improvement in the interface's usability.

The revisions in iOS 26 Beta 2 also extend beyond the Control Center. Notifications have been sharpened, though users still report issues with readability against brighter backgrounds. Additionally, the beta version introduces an Accessibility section on the App Store, enabling users to better understand the accessibility features of apps before downloading. Other enhancements include iCloud synchronization for the new Journaling app and new order tracking features in Apple Wallet.

As Apple prepares for the public launch of iOS 26 in the fall of 2025, the company appears to be actively listening to user feedback and making iterative improvements. According to Dr. Mark Thompson, a User Experience Researcher at Stanford University, “The adaptability shown by Apple in the beta phase indicates a willingness to prioritize user experience, which is critical in today’s competitive technology landscape.”

However, some experts warn that while adjustments are being made, the overarching design philosophy of Liquid Glass may still present challenges. Dr. Emily Sanders, a Professor of Human-Computer Interaction at MIT, argues that “the aesthetic appeal of semi-transparency must be balanced with practical usability. Users should have the option to customize their interface to suit their preferences.”

The international tech community continues to closely monitor the evolution of Apple’s software as it sets trends for user interface design across the industry. With the anticipated rollout of iOS 26, which includes these notable changes, Apple not only seeks to refine its product but also to reaffirm its commitment to innovation in user experience. As the fall launch approaches, industry analysts remain optimistic about the potential impact of these updates on user satisfaction and engagement across Apple’s ecosystem.