iOS 26 preview: Im using Liquid Glass and it mostly lives up to its promise
Apple's iOS 26: A Deep Dive into Liquid Glass
Apple's new design language, "Liquid Glass," is set to revolutionize its operating systems this fall with the official release of iOS 26 (previously known as iOS 18 – Apple is now using year-based numbering). This new design philosophy promises significant visual and interactive changes across all Apple platforms, starting with its flagship operating system, iOS.
Having used the iOS 26 developer beta for several weeks, and with the public beta now available, I can share my in-depth experience. While not as drastically different as some might expect, Liquid Glass offers a refined and visually appealing user experience. This review focuses primarily on Liquid Glass, but many other exciting features are present in iOS 26.
Important Note: Remember, iOS 26 is still in beta. Always back up your phone before installing any beta software. As stated in Apple's Beta Program FAQ, beta software may contain bugs and may not function as smoothly as the final release. Apple encourages users to report any issues encountered.
The Basics of Liquid Glass on iOS 26
The core concept behind Apple's Liquid Glass is simple yet effective: layering. While software elements have always been layered, Liquid Glass brings this concept to the forefront. Interface elements, like buttons and controls, appear as glass-like overlays, showcasing the underlying content. This transparency effect is further enhanced by the simulation of light bending and refraction, adding a visually engaging depth.
This isn't entirely new for Apple; they've previously experimented with transparency. However, Liquid Glass represents a significant advancement, integrating transparency more deeply into the design.
This glass-like effect is widespread, impacting most stock apps. For instance, in apps like Music and News, controls previously scattered at the bottom of the screen are now consolidated into a pill-shaped container that minimizes upon scrolling, maximizing screen real estate. The glass effect subtly bends and refracts the content behind these controls, regardless of their state (minimized or expanded).
The Control Center also showcases Liquid Glass effectively. When swiped down, your home screen is visible behind the control elements. This consistent design approach extends to other Apple operating systems like macOS Tahoe, although the controls themselves differ.
Initial feedback on the Liquid Glass Control Center was mixed. Some users reported visibility issues. However, Apple addressed many of these concerns in subsequent beta releases, improving overall readability. Despite these improvements, minor display issues persist in certain areas, such as app and folder labels against bright wallpapers.
Fortunately, iOS 26 emphasizes customization. Users can adjust transparency levels within the Accessibility settings to mitigate any readability concerns. Reducing the transparency is also an option for a cleaner look.
Personally, I appreciate the visual aspects of Liquid Glass. The return to a more skeuomorphic design – where on-screen elements resemble real-world objects – is appealing, and Apple has successfully executed a smooth, futuristic feel, particularly noticeable during scrolling.
A Streamlined Interface
Liquid Glass goes beyond mere transparency; it's about maximizing screen real estate. This often involves streamlining or minimizing controls when not actively in use.
In apps like News, Messages, and Music, many controls collapse into a single icon while scrolling. This minimal approach works well for me, as I rarely need to access these hidden controls.
However, the streamlining feels excessive in other areas. The Camera app, for example, initially only displays photo and video modes, hiding other modes behind a swipe gesture. While simplifying the interface, this approach might lead users to forget about the hidden features, lacking visual cues.
The Messages app's design also needs refinement. The floating top bubbles, while visually interesting, sometimes obscure the messages beneath, depending on the background.
Finally, taking screenshots requires extra steps, which I find cumbersome.
Customizing Liquid Glass
If Liquid Glass feels overly transparent, you can easily customize it. Beyond adjusting transparency in Accessibility settings, you can also personalize app icons. While the ultra-clear look was highlighted at WWDC, Liquid Glass icons aren't enabled by default, allowing users to gradually adopt the new aesthetic.
Liquid Glass is an intriguing design direction for Apple. The emphasis on skeuomorphism, making software mimic real-world objects, is refreshing. While some minor issues remain, particularly with visual clarity in certain areas, I expect Apple to address these before the final release. The beta program serves this purpose. Those wanting to try Liquid Glass can join the Apple Beta Program for iOS, macOS Tahoe, iPadOS, tvOS, and watchOS.
from Mashable
-via DynaSage
