Apple has introduced a new feature that simplifies customizing LiquidGlass. Users can now set the appearance of LiquidGlass to either Clear or Tinted using a new setting included in the latest beta update for its mobile and desktop operating systems.
This addition shows Apple is paying close attention to user feedback during the early public launches of iOS 26, iPadOS 26, and macOS 26. Apple often implements significant changes but typically provides a fallback option for users who have difficulty adjusting. This approach was seen in 2021 when Apple moved Safari’s address bar to the bottom of the screen. After some user backlash, Apple added an option to move the bar back to the top of the screen. Now, Apple is taking a similar approach with Liquid Glass.
The new Liquid Glass user interface that launched with iOS 26 and other Apple operating systems was the company’s most significant design overhaul since its move from skeuomorphic to flat design in 2013. As with most changes of this scale, not everyone has been supportive. Some users have said the Liquid Glass design makes parts of the interface harder to read, including notifications or navigation controls in apps like Apple Music. Others have expressed appreciation for Liquid Glass’s attention to detail and modern update to an interface that had grown stale over the years.
Facing another potentially divisive response, Apple is now giving users more control over Liquid Glass’s appearance. The new feature was first spotted in iOS 26.1 beta 4 and the accompanying updates for tablets and desktop computers.
Apple stated that during the beta period this summer, it heard from users who wanted the option to set a more opaque look for Liquid Glass. This new setting for personalizing Liquid Glass is available in iOS 26.1, iPadOS 26.1, and macOS 26.1.
To access the feature, beta users can go to the Display and Brightness menu in Settings to find the new Liquid Glass option. On Mac, it is under Appearance in System Settings. The control lets you choose between two options, Clear and Tinted. The Tinted option increases the opacity of interface elements, making them easier to see.
Although some users advocated for a slider to control opacity more precisely, Apple has chosen a toggle with two specified tint levels. This approach makes it easier for third-party developers to test how their apps look under the different settings.
Apple confirmed that any developers who have already implemented Liquid Glass in their apps will automatically have the user’s preference applied. Developers can test this now in the 26.1 developer beta.
After selecting their preferred option, users will see changes across various user interface elements, such as the Now Playing controls, notifications on the Lock Screen, and in both Apple’s apps and those from third-party developers.
While the beta feature is available for developers now, the public beta should arrive in the next few days ahead of the wider public release.