Each fall, Apple rolls out its latest software updates for devices like iPhones, iPads, and others. This year, iOS 26 is particularly noteworthy because it introduces a completely new look for your iPhone. However, this refreshed design can make text hard to read throughout the operating system. But don’t worry; there’s an easy solution.
iOS 26: A Shift in Design
Apple has made significant updates to iOS this year, including a change in its numbering system. Instead of the usual sequence, Apple is now following an annual release format. So, instead of moving from iOS 18 to iOS 19, we’re jumping straight to iOS 26 for 2026. Other software within Apple’s ecosystem—like iPadOS 26, watchOS 26, macOS 26, and tvOS 26—will also make this shift.
The major change this year is in the design. iOS 26 marks the first major overhaul since 2013, introducing a new design language dubbed “Liquid Glass.” This theme is influenced by how light interacts with real glass, creating layers, reflections, and buttons that behave like droplets when touched or moved.
It’s worth noting that Apple seems to be still fine-tuning the look and feel of iOS 26.1, even after extensive beta testing over the summer.
While iOS 26 doesn’t drastically alter how your phone works, the Liquid Glass aesthetic certainly transforms the visual experience and user interface, particularly regarding text. Many transparent elements, such as notifications and controls, can lead to readability issues. Apple tried to address this with some background blurring, but frankly, many sections remain challenging to read and can even be a bit distracting.
Improving Readability in iOS 26
While the readability concerns are indeed a point of critique for Apple, they have included accessibility options to help address them. If you’re looking for immediate relief for your eyes, here’s what you can do:
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone. If you can’t find it, just swipe down from the center of the home screen and type “Settings” into the search bar.
- Scroll down and tap on the blue “Accessibility” option.
- Select the blue “Display and Text Size” option.
- You’ll notice an option to “Reduce Transparency” at the top of the screen. Tap it.
By enabling this feature, all those transparent panes will be replaced with solid layers, making the text much easier to read. This setting is also applicable to iPads running iPadOS 26.
What to Do If Liquid Glass Isn’t for You
If you’re not a fan of the Liquid Glass look, you have some options for now. Apple is still supporting iOS 18, so you can stick with that version and continue receiving security updates until you feel ready to make the switch.
However, all four new iPhones launched this year come with iOS 26 pre-installed, and there’s currently no way to roll back to iOS 18. So if you upgrade to an iPhone 17, 17 Pro, 17 Pro Max, or iPhone Air, you’re stuck with Liquid Glass.
As for iOS 26, it’s compatible with iPhone 11 and newer models. Devices released before 2019 won’t receive this update.
A New Identity for iOS
With the last major redesign of iOS over a decade ago, Apple gave the iPhone a much-needed refresh. The new transparent layers and smooth animations associated with Liquid Glass have revitalized this nearly 20-year-old device category. While this change is refreshing, not everyone may be on board with it.
There’s ongoing discussion online indicating that the reception for iOS 26 has been quite mixed, and Apple appears to be working on improvements with iOS 26.1, even after a summer of beta testing. The current liquid glass interface might not end up being its final form, and it might be wise to disable those transparent panes until Apple finds a better balance between transparency and readability.
