iOS 26 arrived with a bold new face: Liquid Glass. This striking design language immediately sparked debate, captivating some with its modern aesthetic while frustrating others with visibility concerns and inconsistencies.
Apple itself wrestled with the design throughout the beta phases. The core challenge lay in balancing the alluring glassy effect with practical readability. Too much transparency and buttons blended into the background; too little, and the design lost its unique charm, earning the nickname “Frosted Glass” from some observers.
Recognizing the divided opinions, Apple took an unexpected step. Instead of forcing a single vision, they empowered users to choose their preferred Liquid Glass experience – clear or tinted.
This surprising option appeared late in the beta cycle, arriving with the fourth iOS 26.1 and macOS 26.1 betas just two weeks before the official release. The setting, found within Display & Brightness (iOS/iPadOS) or Appearance (macOS), offers a straightforward choice.
“Clear” delivers the original Liquid Glass vision: a highly transparent effect allowing background elements to shine through. “Tinted” increases opacity, prioritizing readability of menus and windows at the cost of some visual depth.
Early feedback from beta testers called for a more granular control – a slider to fine-tune the transparency level. While Apple didn’t implement a slider, the two-tiered system is a significant improvement for those who prefer a less transparent look.
Previously, users seeking a similar effect relied on the “Reduce Transparency” feature within Accessibility settings. However, the new “Tinted” option offers a more refined solution, specifically designed to complement the Liquid Glass aesthetic.
“Reduce Transparency” applies a blanket effect, dimming all transparency across the system. “Tinted” is a deliberate adjustment, carefully integrated with Liquid Glass to enhance usability without sacrificing the overall design intent.
Ultimately, Apple’s decision to offer a choice demonstrates a willingness to listen to user feedback and adapt a controversial design. It’s a move that acknowledges the subjective nature of aesthetics and prioritizes a comfortable experience for everyone.
