Apple is giving users more control over the look of Liquid Glass, the new interface style introduced with iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26. A fresh option in the latest 26.1 beta lets you switch Liquid Glass between Clear and Tinted, making it easier to tailor the UI for readability or aesthetics.
This is classic Apple: roll out a bold design update, then offer a fallback for those who prefer a different feel. The company took a similar path when it relocated Safari’s address bar in 2021 and later added a way to move it back. With Liquid Glass, the stakes are higher—this has been the biggest visual overhaul since the shift from skeuomorphic textures to flat design in 2013—so it’s no surprise the feedback has been strong on both sides.
Some users love the modern sheen and depth Liquid Glass brings. Others say certain elements can be tougher to read, like Now Playing controls, notifications on the Lock Screen, or navigation in apps such as Apple Music. The new setting addresses that by letting you increase opacity for better contrast without abandoning the fresh look.
What’s new in iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS 26.1
– A Liquid Glass appearance control with two presets: Clear and Tinted
– Tinted increases opacity for stronger contrast and easier legibility
– The option applies systemwide, including Apple apps and third‑party apps that use Liquid Glass
– Developers don’t need to do anything special; user preferences are applied automatically
Where to find the Liquid Glass setting
– iPhone and iPad: Settings > Display & Brightness > Liquid Glass > choose Clear or Tinted
– Mac: System Settings > Appearance > Liquid Glass > choose Clear or Tinted
Why this matters
– Improves readability for notifications, media controls, and navigation elements
– Keeps the design cohesive while giving users a say in how transparent the UI should feel
– Offers a quick, system-level toggle instead of forcing per‑app adjustments
What you won’t see (for now)
– There’s no fine‑grained opacity slider. Apple went with a simple two‑option toggle, which should satisfy most users while keeping the interface straightforward.
Availability
– The feature is live in the latest developer beta for iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS 26.1.
– A public beta is expected to follow shortly, with a wider rollout after testing.
Quick FAQ
– What is Liquid Glass? Apple’s new design language that introduces a layered, translucent look across the system.
– Will this affect third‑party apps? Yes, if they use Liquid Glass, they’ll automatically respect the system preference.
– Can I change it anytime? Yes. Switch between Clear and Tinted whenever you like from Settings or System Settings.
If the new design has felt too transparent in places, the Tinted option is a simple fix. And if you love the airy, glassy aesthetic, you can keep it Clear. Either way, Apple’s giving you more control over how your iPhone, iPad, and Mac look and feel—without compromising the overall design direction.
