Apple is known for its cutting-edge design ethos, but even tech giants like Apple aren’t immune to feedback. In the realm of iOS development, specifically with the latest iteration, iOS 26, Apple has taken a step back to reassess its much-touted Liquid Glass design. The initial reception from testers and developers prompted Apple to rethink the level of transparency in its interface elements.
In the third developer beta release of iOS 26, users noticed significant visual tweaks aimed at toning down the transparency that characterized the Liquid Glass aesthetic. Navigation bars, buttons, and tab elements now sport a more frosted appearance, moving away from the highly transparent look that was initially showcased at WWDC. This adjustment comes as a response to user complaints about readability issues caused by excessive transparency.
“iOS 26 beta 3 completely nerfs Liquid Glass. It looks so much cheaper now,”
remarked Sam Kohl, developer of AppleTrack.
The shift towards a less see-through design seems to prioritize functionality and user experience over pure aesthetics. For some users and developers, this change represents a necessary evolution toward a more practical interface. However, not everyone is on board with this new direction – critics argue that Apple might be sacrificing its original bold vision for a more generic look.
“It feels like Apple is backtracking on their original vision,”
expressed another commentator on X platform.
This divergence in opinions highlights the delicate balance companies like Apple must strike between innovative design and practical usability when shaping their products’ interfaces.
While some users have criticized these alterations as a “step backward,” it’s evident that Apple is actively listening to feedback and tweaking its design language accordingly. The subtle variations in transparency levels seen across different apps suggest that Apple is experimenting with context-specific adjustments to enhance user experience without compromising visual appeal entirely.
With iOS 26 slated for public release around September 2025, there’s still time for Apple to fine-tune its approach. Whether the final version will manage to find harmony between striking visuals and intuitive design remains uncertain. As technology continues to evolve rapidly, one thing is clear: even industry leaders must adapt and iterate based on user insights for their products to resonate effectively in an ever-changing digital landscape.
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