In the latest macOS 26 update, users have encountered challenges when attempting to resize application windows. This issue stems from a design inconsistency where the windows appear to have rounded corners visually but are actually coded with square corners.
Historically, macOS windows featured a visual indicator in the bottom right-hand corner, signaling that they could be resized. This design element provided a clear grab handle for users. However, with the evolution of macOS, this indicator was removed, allowing users to resize windows by clicking and dragging any corner. The introduction of larger corner radii in macOS 26 has inadvertently led to a mismatch between the visual representation and the functional design of window corners.
Developer Norbert Heger highlighted this discrepancy, noting that the active area for resizing a window is a 19 × 19 pixel zone near the window’s corner. In previous macOS versions without rounded corners, approximately 62% of this area was inside the window. Due to the pronounced corner radius in macOS 26, about 75% of this active area now lies outside the window’s visual boundary. This misalignment causes users to click in areas that appear to be part of the window but are not functionally active for resizing.
John Gruber further emphasized the visual inconsistencies resulting from this design choice. For instance, scrollbars are positioned as if they are within a rectangle with square corners, leading to a disjointed visual experience.
This design anomaly has sparked discussions within the macOS user community, with many expressing concerns over the usability and aesthetic coherence of the operating system’s interface. As Apple continues to refine its design language, addressing such inconsistencies will be crucial to ensure both functionality and visual harmony in future macOS iterations.
In summary, the challenges users face when resizing windows in macOS 26 are due to a misalignment between the visual design and the functional coding of window corners. While the corners appear rounded, they are functionally square, leading to user confusion and interaction difficulties. This issue underscores the importance of cohesive design and functionality in user interface development.
Experiencing issues resizing windows in macOS 26? The rounded corners are just for show; they’re actually square! #macOS26 #UIdesign #Apple
macOS 26 window resizing issues
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Category: Apple News
