The Liquid Glass Interface: iOS 26’s Boldest—and Most Controversial—Feature
The Liquid Glass user interface is both the headline feature of iOS 26 and one of the most controversial things Apple has done in recent years. The company has now officially released iOS 26.1, giving users the choice to either keep Liquid Glass as it is or dramatically tone it down.
The Liquid Glass Controversy
We were expecting iOS 26 to bring the most dramatic visual change to the iPhone operating system since iOS 7—and that expectation was certainly met. However, it would be an understatement to say the reactions were mixed.
While I’m generally a fan of the new interface, that hasn’t been the case for everyone. Some users have pointed out usability issues, while others simply dislike the aesthetics of Liquid Glass.
Apple clearly anticipated some degree of pushback and provided a wide range of options to control the visual effects. However, most of these controls were somewhat hidden, requiring users to dig deep into the settings to find them.
iOS 26.1 Provides a Simple Toggle
That changes with the official release of iOS 26.1, which arrived yesterday. This new option was first spotted in the fourth developer beta, and here’s how Apple describes it:
“Liquid Glass setting gives you the option to choose between the default clear look or a new tinted look which increases opacity of the material in apps and notifications on the Lock Screen.”
On the iPhone, you can find the new toggle in Settings > Display and Brightness. Although it receives only a brief mention in the release notes, its impact is significant, as illustrated in the images above.
While Apple might argue that this setting simply adjusts transparency levels—where the tinted version is akin to frosted glass and the default remains clear—I’d say it’s the closest thing to a true Liquid Glass on/off toggle the company could provide.
By flipping this switch, users who dislike Liquid Glass can effectively revert to an experience very similar to the pre-iOS 26 look.
What Do You Choose?
Have you tried the new toggle yet? Did you stick with the default Liquid Glass look, customize the detailed settings yourself, or use this new option to nearly switch it off?
Please take our poll and share your thoughts in the comments below—we’re eager to hear how you feel about Liquid Glass and the new toggle option!
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https://9to5mac.com/2025/11/04/its-decision-time-for-liquid-glass-what-do-you-choose-poll/
