Apple has introduced an exciting new feature that allows users to customize the appearance of Liquid Glass according to their preferences. With this update, users can choose between Clear and Tinted options for Liquid Glass, courtesy of a new setting featured in the latest beta release of Apple’s mobile and desktop operating systems.
This enhancement reflects Apple’s attentiveness to user feedback during the early stages of the public launches of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26. While Apple often aims for substantial updates, it also tends to incorporate fallback options for those who may struggle with significant changes.
A similar situation arose when Apple relocated Safari’s address bar to the bottom of the screen back in 2021. Following some backlash concerning this controversial decision, the tech giant granted users the option to revert the address bar to its original position at the top of the screen. (In defense of Apple, the move was ultimately justified; positioning the bar within easy reach of your thumbs proved advantageous.)
Now, Apple is unveiling a similar user-centric approach with the Liquid Glass feature.
The new user interface introduced with iOS 26 marks Apple’s most significant design overhaul since its transition from a skeuomorphic to flat design in 2013. As with many major changes, not everyone has embraced the new look.
Critics have pointed out that the Liquid Glass design can make certain interface elements, such as notifications and navigation controls in apps like Apple Music, harder to read. Conversely, many users appreciate Liquid Glass for its meticulous detail and modern aesthetic, viewing it as a refreshing upgrade to an interface that had become stale over time.
In response to the mixed reactions, Apple is now empowering users to take charge of Liquid Glass’s appearance.
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First reported by 9to5Mac, this new feature made its debut with iOS 26.1 beta 4 and the corresponding updates for iPads and Macs.
When contacted for comments, Apple informed TechCrunch that during the beta testing phase this summer, it received requests from users who wanted a more opaque appearance for Liquid Glass. Consequently, this new customization option is available in iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS 26.1.
To access this new feature, beta users can navigate to the “Display & Brightness” menu under the Settings app, while Mac users will find it under “Appearance” in System Settings. This new toggle allows users to select between two settings: Clear and Tinted. The Tinted option increases the opacity of interface components, enhancing visibility.
While some users expressed a desire for a slider to finely adjust opacity, Apple has opted for a straightforward toggle that presents the two predefined tint levels. This approach also streamlines the testing process for third-party developers, making it easier to evaluate how their apps perform under both settings.
Apple has assured TechCrunch that any developers who have already integrated Liquid Glass into their applications will automatically have the user’s preferred setting applied. Developers can currently test this functionality in the 26.1 developer beta.
Once users select their desired setting, they will see changes across various interface elements, including the Now Playing controls, Lock Screen Notifications, and both Apple’s own apps and third-party applications.
Although the beta feature is rolling out for developers today, the public beta should be available within the next few days, leading up to a broader public release.
