Apple’s New Liquid Glass Design Gets an Upgrade with iOS 26.1


Apple’s new Liquid Glass design language has been one of the most eye-catching and debated additions across its 2025 software lineup. Introduced in iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and beyond, this ultra-fluid and translucent interface redefined the visual identity of Apple’s ecosystem — but not without controversy.

Some users praised its futuristic feel and depth, while others found it difficult to read, particularly in bright environments. Now, Apple’s upcoming 26.1 update aims to strike the perfect balance between aesthetics and accessibility.

A New “Tinted” Option for Better Visibility

The Liquid Glass interface adds smooth translucency and subtle reflections across menus, notifications, and app backgrounds. While visually stunning, many users complained that the transparency often compromised legibility.

Apple’s response is both thoughtful and practical. Instead of removing the visual depth that defines Liquid Glass, the company is introducing a new toggle feature — allowing users to switch between Clear and Tinted modes.

  • Clear Mode preserves the default glassy transparency seen in iOS 26.

  • Tinted Mode increases opacity and contrast, reducing glare and making text easier to read.

This middle-ground solution bridges the gap between the existing visuals and the more extreme Reduce Transparency setting found deep in Accessibility options. It offers improved readability without losing the design’s signature elegance.

Beta Testing Reveals Minor Inconsistencies

As the 26.1 update remains in beta testing, early reviewers have noticed slight inconsistencies in how the toggle behaves across different platforms.

On iOS, the feature appears more stable, providing a consistent shift between modes. However, on macOS 26.1, users have reported cases where certain apps don’t revert to Clear Mode without a restart, and some interface components — such as Control Center — don’t reflect the new setting at all.

Despite these minor hiccups, the feature’s intent is clear: to make Apple’s evolving design language more adaptable and user-friendly. The company is expected to refine these behaviors before the final release.

Where to Find the New Toggle

For those planning to test or use the feature once the update goes public, here’s where you can find it:

  • On iOS and iPadOS 26.1, head to Settings > Display & Brightness.

  • On macOS 26.1 (Tahoe), you’ll find it under System Settings > Appearance.

The feature will also be part of upcoming updates for watchOS, tvOS, visionOS, and the HomePod OS, ensuring a consistent experience across the Apple ecosystem.

A Broader Rollout with Stability and Security Fixes

Beyond the Liquid Glass toggle, Apple’s 26.1 update will include several bug fixes, enhanced system stability, and critical security patches. A few minor features that missed the initial 26.0 release are also expected to debut, ensuring Apple’s platforms continue to evolve toward better usability and performance.

As Apple continues refining its ecosystem, managing and moving data between devices remains essential for everyday users. This is where Smart Transfer steps in — a reliable third-party transfer app designed for quick, safe, and seamless data migration.

Whether you’re setting up a new iPhone, or iPad, Smart Transfer simplifies easy file sharing between platforms. Its fast share technology ensures that photos, videos, documents, and contacts move securely from one device to another in just a few taps — without the need for cables or complex settings.

Smart Transfer’s intuitive interface complements Apple’s clean design philosophy, making it a perfect companion for users who value efficiency and simplicity. As Apple polishes its software visuals, Smart Transfer ensures your digital life moves just as smoothly.

Final Thoughts

The introduction of the Tinted mode in Apple’s 26.1 update proves that the company listens closely to user feedback. By offering a choice between visual beauty and practical readability, Apple continues to refine its balance between form and function.

As users await the full rollout of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS 26.1, one thing is clear: Apple’s focus on personalization and accessibility is growing stronger than ever. And with Smart Transfer by your side, upgrading to any new Apple device is easier, faster, and smarter than ever before.


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Google's Made by Google Event: Unveiling the Pixel 9 Series by August

Image
In a surprising announcement, Google has confirmed it will host its highly anticipated Made by Google event on August 13. This event promises to be a showcase of the latest innovations in Android, Pixel, and artificial intelligence. Although the initial invitation left some ambiguity, not explicitly mentioning "Pixel 9" or "new Pixel devices," it didn't take long for the speculation to be confirmed. Google will indeed unveil the Pixel 9 series, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of its flagship devices. The Teaser: A Glimpse of the Future On a newly launched teaser page on the Google Store, the excitement is palpable. Phrases like “Launch is coming” and “Don’t miss the magic” set the stage for what’s to come. Accompanying these enticing hints is a short video that offers a fleeting look at the Pixel 9 series. In the video, a delicate play of light briefly illuminates the sleek design of the Pixel 9, a design that has been the subject of much specul...
Read more

The Future of iPhones: A Sneak Peek into the Slim iPhone 17

Image
The realm of smartphones is ever-evolving, and Apple has been at the forefront of innovation since its inception. From the groundbreaking introduction of OLED and Face ID in the iPhone X to the sleek designs of subsequent models, Apple continues to redefine the boundaries of technology and style. Now, rumors swirl of a major redesign in the works for the upcoming iPhone 17, promising a device that could revolutionize the way we view smartphones. Let's delve into the exciting prospects of the rumored "Slim" iPhone 17 and what it might mean for Apple enthusiasts worldwide. The Buzz Around iPhone 17 Speculation has been rife regarding the potential features of the iPhone 17, with reports suggesting a significant departure from previous models. According to The Information, Apple is gearing up for a major overhaul, slated for release as part of the iPhone 17 refresh in 2025. What's more, whispers indicate that this new iteration may come with a hefty price tag, surpassing...
Read more

Android's Instant Hotspot Feature Now Enabled by Default — A Quiet Revolution in Connectivity

Image
For years, Android users have admired Apple's Continuity features—from seamless file transfers to effortless tethering. Among them, Instant Hotspot stood out as the ultimate convenience. Now, Android has quietly caught up—and perhaps even surpassed it—with a feature that makes switching between devices as simple as turning them on. The Feature You Didn't Know Android Already Had Unbeknownst to many users, Android's Instant Hotspot has existed since September of last year. Hidden within a relatively obscure menu under Cross-Device Services, this functionality allowed one Android device to automatically share its data connection with another—no manual hotspot setup required. But here’s the kicker: until now, users had to manually navigate deep into settings and toggle features most had never heard of. Even tech-savvy users and Android enthusiasts often overlooked it. That changes today. Google Flips the Switch: Instant Hotspot Is Now On by Default Thanks to a quiet update in ...
Read more