Apple has confirmed that its “Liquid Glass” user interface design will be a permanent feature, signaling a long-term commitment to the concept despite mixed user reactions.
The decision signifies Apple’s strategy of evolutionary refinement rather than radical change for its operating systems. Liquid Glass, introduced as part of a major visual update, aims for a transparent, glass-like presentation of interfaces, enabling visual overlapping for a modern, dynamic feel.
Development of Liquid Glass reportedly spanned several years, originating during the creation of visionOS, the operating system for Apple’s mixed-reality headset. According to information from Mark Gurman’s “Power On” newsletter at Bloomberg, a complete reversal to earlier UI concepts would represent a costly and long-term project for Apple.
The project received support from Apple’s entire design organization and executive leadership, with no internal opposition reported from key designers. While the transparent elements are noted to work well on devices such as the iPhone and iPad, critics have cited issues with text readability, particularly on larger displays like the Mac and the smaller Apple Watch interface.
Apple has begun addressing user feedback, integrating options in a recent iOS beta version to allow users to reduce the intensity of the glass effect. Speculation regarding design changes following Alan Dye’s departure to Meta has been countered by reports indicating the project will continue independently of individual personnel.
This long-term strategy mirrors Apple’s approach to the iOS 7 redesign in 2013, which also underwent several years of iterative adjustments.
