Apple Tweaks Liquid Glass Design in iOS 26 Beta 3: Transparency Dialed Down for Better Readability
Apple’s iOS 26 just got a visual overhaul—but not the kind many fans were expecting. In the third developer beta of iOS 26, Apple has further toned down the transparency in its Liquid Glass design language, which was first unveiled at WWDC. The change affects elements like navigation bars, buttons, and tabs, which now appear more frosted and solid, reducing the once-prominent see-through aesthetic.
What Is Apple’s Liquid Glass Design?
Liquid Glass is Apple’s latest UI style that emphasises depth, clarity, and dynamic transparency—designed to give iOS a sleek, futuristic feel. First introduced in iOS 26, it was praised for its visual sophistication, resembling layers of frosted glass that respond to content and motion.
However, early beta testers reported issues with visibility, especially in areas like the Control Centre, where icons and settings became hard to see due to excessive transparency.
iOS 26 Beta 3: What’s Changing?
In iOS 26 beta 3, Apple appears to have responded to user feedback by reducing the level of transparency across several UI components. Now, instead of fully translucent menus and bars, users see more frosted, opaque layers.
This tweak aims to enhance readability and accessibility, particularly in complex or content-heavy views. But not everyone is happy.
User Reactions: Praise and Backlash
While some users appreciate the change for its practical benefits, others see it as a step backwards.
“iOS 26 beta 3 completely nerfs Liquid Glass,” says AppleTrack developer Sam Kohl on X. “It looks so much cheaper now and feels like Apple is backtracking on their original vision.”
Other beta testers called the update disappointing, urging Apple to restore the bold, glass-like aesthetic showcased during WWDC 2025. On forums and social media, terms like “stop ruining Liquid Glass” and “downgrade in design” are trending within the developer community.
Transparency Still Varies by App
Interestingly, some developers noticed that the level of transparency now varies by app, suggesting that Apple may be experimenting with contextual or adaptive design rules. This could mean that Liquid Glass is still evolving and might not be finalized until iOS 26’s public release in September 2025.
Why Apple Might Be Making the Change
Apple has long walked a tightrope between aesthetic innovation and usability. While Liquid Glass earned points for visual impact, it seems the initial transparency was too much for practical use. Reducing the glassiness is likely a readability-focused move, especially with Apple’s increasing emphasis on accessibility features across its ecosystem.
What to Expect Before iOS 26 Launch
With several beta releases still ahead, it’s likely Apple will continue to fine-tune Liquid Glass based on user feedback. Whether the final version will lean toward bold visual flair or functional clarity remains to be seen.
Key Takeaways from iOS 26 Beta 3
- Liquid Glass elements are now more frosted and less transparent
- Improved readability for UI components like tabs and buttons
- Mixed reactions from users and developers
- Transparency varies depending on the app
- More changes are likely before the final iOS 26 release in September
Stay Updated
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