In response to user feedback, Apple has introduced a new feature allowing users to customize the appearance of its Liquid Glass interface. This update, available in the latest beta versions of iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS 26.1, offers two distinct settings: Clear and Tinted. The Tinted option increases the opacity of interface elements, enhancing readability and providing a more traditional visual experience.
Background on Liquid Glass Design
Unveiled at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June 2025, the Liquid Glass design marked Apple’s most significant visual overhaul since transitioning from skeuomorphic to flat design in 2013. Inspired by the optical qualities of real-world glass, this design introduced shiny, reflective, and transparent elements across Apple’s operating systems, including iOS, iPadOS, macOS, watchOS, and tvOS. The aim was to create a unified and modern aesthetic that dynamically reacts to user interactions and content.
User Feedback and Apple’s Response
While many users appreciated the modernized look of Liquid Glass, some reported challenges with readability, particularly concerning notifications and navigation controls in apps like Apple Music. Acknowledging these concerns, Apple has provided the Tinted option as a solution, allowing users to adjust the interface’s transparency to their preference.
Accessing the New Feature
To enable the Tinted option:
– On iOS and iPadOS: Navigate to Settings > Display & Brightness > Liquid Glass, then select between Clear and Tinted.
– On macOS: Go to System Settings > Appearance > Liquid Glass, and choose your preferred setting.
This adjustment will affect various interface elements, including the Lock Screen, Control Center, and both native and third-party applications that have integrated the Liquid Glass design.
Developer Integration
Apple has ensured that developers who have already implemented Liquid Glass in their applications will automatically inherit the user’s chosen preference. This seamless integration allows for a consistent user experience across different apps. Developers can test this functionality in the current 26.1 developer beta.
Historical Context of User-Centric Updates
Apple’s decision to offer customization options reflects its history of responding to user feedback. For instance, in 2021, after relocating Safari’s address bar to the bottom of the screen—a move that faced user backlash—Apple introduced an option to revert the bar to its original position at the top. This approach demonstrates Apple’s commitment to balancing innovation with user comfort.
Availability
The Tinted option is currently available in the developer beta versions of iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS 26.1. Public beta testers can expect access in the coming days, with a broader public release anticipated shortly thereafter.
Conclusion
By introducing the Tinted option, Apple empowers users to tailor the Liquid Glass interface to their visual preferences, enhancing both aesthetics and usability. This update underscores Apple’s dedication to user satisfaction and its responsiveness to community feedback.
