IOS 26: HOW TO CHANGE YOUR IPHONE'S NEW LIQUID GLASS DESIGN

Apple's iOS 26 brings a major visual overhaul called the Liquid Glass design, a fluid aesthetic update that blends transparency, depth, and motion to make the iPhone interface feel more dynamic.

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While many users are excited by the fresh look, others prefer a more minimal style. Apple has anticipated this divide, introducing new customization tools that let people adjust or scale back Liquid Glass effects to suit personal preference.

WHAT IS LIQUID GLASS?

Liquid Glass is Apple’s most ambitious design update since iOS 7. It introduces translucent surfaces, dynamic reflections, and shifting highlights that mimic the feel of glass bending under light. Control Center, notifications, and widgets appear to ripple with subtle motion when users swipe or scroll. Apple says the system is designed to feel more “alive,” responding to context and movement in ways that mimic the physical world.

The update ties into Apple Intelligence as well, with certain Liquid Glass layers subtly adapting to activity—for example, a calmer background when focus mode is on, or more vibrant colors during media playback. The design is GPU-intensive, making use of Apple's latest chips to render the effect smoothly.

HOW TO CHANGE THE LIQUID GLASS LOOK

For users who find the motion distracting or simply want a more restrained design, iOS 26 includes a Display & Brightness section in Settings where Liquid Glass can be adjusted. Options include:

Standard Mode: the full Liquid Glass experience with all reflections and motions active.

Static Glass: transparency without dynamic highlights, offering a simpler look with less movement.