Apple’s latest iOS 26 update provides users with more control over the controversial “Liquid Glass” interface – a design that introduced rounded, translucent elements across iPhones, iPads, and Macs. While some embraced the aesthetic, others found it hindered readability. The rollout of iOS 26.1 and subsequent beta testing of 26.2 now offer ways to dial back the effect, addressing usability concerns.
Adjusting Liquid Glass in Settings
The primary adjustment is a simple toggle found within the Display & Brightness settings. Users can switch between Clear (the original Liquid Glass look) and Tinted, which applies a solid background to on-screen elements. The change is immediate, but the visual difference varies depending on the app. The Photos app provides a clear example – the floating bar at the bottom becomes more defined with the Tinted option enabled.
Currently, the tint color is dynamic, shifting between light and dark shades based on the active screen content. There is no user-adjustable color setting as of yet.
Further Customization in iOS 26.2
Apple’s ongoing testing of iOS 26.2 expands customization options further. The beta includes controls for adjusting Liquid Glass on the lock screen, where excessive transparency can make text and icons illegible depending on the wallpaper. Users can switch between Glass (Liquid Glass) and Solid (no transparency). A slider also lets you fine-tune the effect’s opacity.
Accessibility and Home Screen Tweaks
Beyond dedicated Liquid Glass settings, iOS 26 offers broader customization tools to improve readability. The Accessibility > Display & Text Size menu contains a Reduce Transparency toggle, further diminishing the Liquid Glass effect. Additional options include Bold Text, Larger Text, and Increase Contrast —all designed to make on-screen elements easier to distinguish.
Finally, home screen customization allows users to darken icons and backgrounds, increasing icon size for better visibility. These settings complement the Liquid Glass adjustments, ensuring a more tailored user experience.
Apple’s move to allow greater control over Liquid Glass acknowledges that design preferences vary. By providing multiple adjustment points—from dedicated toggles to accessibility features—the company balances aesthetic innovation with practical usability.
The iOS 26 updates demonstrate a willingness to adapt based on user feedback, ensuring that the latest interface remains functional and accessible for all.
