Honor has unveiled MagicOS 11, its latest Android 17-based operating system, which closely emulates Apple’s Liquid Glass design language. This move underscores a trend among Android manufacturers to adopt visual elements reminiscent of iOS.
Apple’s Liquid Glass, introduced in recent iOS versions, features waterdrop-like buttons, light refractions, and glowing effects, creating a fluid and dynamic user interface. While some Android brands have incorporated similar elements, Honor’s MagicOS 11 stands out for its striking resemblance to Apple’s design.
In promotional videos shared on Weibo, Honor showcases MagicOS 11’s interface, highlighting the water-inspired aesthetics and interactive animations that mirror those found in iOS. This design approach aims to offer users a visually engaging experience, though it raises questions about originality in UI development.
Currently, MagicOS 11 is undergoing testing on the Honor Magic 8 series, including models like the Magic 8, Magic 8 Pro, Magic 8 Pro Air, and Magic 8 RSR Porsche Design. The update is anticipated to roll out to other Honor devices later this year.
Honor’s adoption of a design language so closely aligned with Apple’s highlights the ongoing influence of iOS aesthetics on the Android ecosystem. While such similarities may appeal to users familiar with Apple’s interface, they also prompt discussions about innovation and differentiation in smartphone UI design.