How Apple’s iOS 26.1 Beta Simplifies Liquid Glass Control

Apple Reverses Course on Liquid Glass Design in New iOS Beta.Apple is introducing a new setting to control its controversial Liquid Glass interface. The option appeared in the latest iOS 26.1 Developer Beta 4 release. Users can now choose between a tinted or clear aesthetic.This move follows significant user feedback on the design’s visual impact. It represents another adjustment in Apple’s rollout of the Liquid Glass look.

How to Access the New Liquid Glass Settings

Testers can find the new toggle after installing the beta update. Navigate to Settings, then Display and Brightness. The Liquid Glass menu now presents two distinct choices.Selecting “Tinted” activates the original frosted glass effect. This increases opacity for menus, notifications, and the lock screen. It also tones down the rainbow shimmer seen when tapping elements.The “Clear” option maintains the full, transparent Liquid Glass effect across the system. This is the default experience that has divided users since its debut.

A Middle Ground for a Divided User Base

This is not Apple’s first design reversal for iOS 26. The company previously scaled back the effect in an earlier developer beta. According to Reuters, such iterative changes are common during beta testing phases.The new toggle offers a compromise. Users who find the clear effect visually challenging or a performance drain can now disable it. Those who enjoy the modern, glass-like look can keep it fully enabled.

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The new settings provide much-needed flexibility, ensuring the final Liquid Glass implementation satisfies a broader range of iPhone users.

Thought you’d like to know-

What is Liquid Glass in iOS?

Liquid Glass is Apple’s new design language. It introduces transparent, glass-like effects across the system interface for a modern look.

How do I turn off Liquid Glass?

You can disable the full effect in iOS 26.1. Go to Settings, then Display and Brightness, and select the “Tinted” Liquid Glass option.

Does the Tinted option change the Control Center?

No, the current Tinted setting does not apply to the Control Center or home screen app icons. It focuses on system menus and notifications.

Why is Apple changing the design?

Apple is responding to mixed user reactions. Some people reported issues with visibility and performance, prompting the company to add more control.

When will this update be available to everyone?

The toggle is currently in developer beta. A public release of iOS 26.1 is expected in the coming weeks, following Apple’s standard testing process.