Apple announced at the Worldwide Developers Conference in San Jose that users can now adjust the visibility of the Liquid Glass UI effect [1].
This change addresses user feedback regarding the visual intensity of the interface. Some users found the effect too overwhelming when applied to lock screens and widgets [2].
The new feature arrives as part of iOS 26.1 [3]. It introduces a specific toggle that allows users to tone down the Liquid Glass effect, providing more control over the aesthetic of the operating system [2].
The announcement took place during WWDC 2026 [1]. This event serves as the primary venue for the company to debut software updates and hardware integration for the coming year.
While some industry reports previously suggested the Liquid Glass design would remain static, the introduction of this toggle indicates a shift toward more customizable user interfaces [2]. The setting is intended to balance the high-fidelity look of the glass effect with the practical need for readability, and reduced visual noise [2].
Apple said it did not provide specific details on whether this toggle would be available for macOS, though previous beta versions had indicated similar tinted toggles for different platforms [2]. The focus of the current announcement remains on the mobile experience provided by iOS 26.1 [3].
“Users can now tone down Liquid Glass via a new toggle in iOS 26.1.”
This update signals a move by Apple to prioritize user accessibility and preference over a rigid design language. By allowing users to modulate the intensity of the Liquid Glass effect, Apple is acknowledging that high-concept visual styles can sometimes hinder usability, particularly in high-contrast areas like the lock screen.
