Well, it seems like either pigs are flying or, surprisingly, Apple has taken user feedback into account.
Following numerous complaints about the readability of its liquid glass design, Apple has rolled out an update that eliminates the problematic transparent layer, making the display easier on the eyes. If you want to try out the new feature, you just need an iPhone, the latest iOS version 26.1, and a couple of tweaks to your display settings.
So, goodbye Liquid Glass, 2025-2025. Honestly, we won’t miss you.
When iOS 26 debuted back in September, we raised concerns, particularly about the liquid glass feature. The design team at Apple had included a transparent layer that rendered text hard to read—this was especially annoying in Notification Center and Control Center. The only workaround at the time was to reduce transparency using accessibility settings, which, ironically, was meant for users with visual impairments rather than the general population.
Fast forward a month, and a permanent solution is finally available, and you can check it out now.
With iOS 26.1, a new option has been introduced that goes beyond mere transparency reduction, restoring the beloved frosted glass effect from iOS 18. Once enabled, it feels like you’re back in familiar territory, and squinting becomes a rare occurrence.
How to switch off liquid glass in iOS 26.1
This new feature is labeled “tinted liquid glass.” To access it, just open the Settings app on your iPhone, scroll down to Display & Brightness, and then find the liquid glass section. By default, it’s set to clear mode, but you can switch to colored mode with just a few taps. Easy enough, right?
And that’s how it’s done! The annoying transparent liquid glass layer has been effectively banished. It’s about time, honestly. Bye-bye Liquid Glass, 2025-2025. We won’t shed any tears.
It’s not just the iPhone that gets this update; iPads running iPadOS 26.1 can also benefit from tinted liquid glass. The steps to enable it are the same, so don’t forget to turn it on there for some quick eye relief.
Oh, and here’s a quick tip: if you had previously enabled Reduce Transparency in iOS 26 or iPadOS 26, make sure to switch that off. Otherwise, you won’t appreciate the full effect of the new colored liquid glass. Just follow a few simple steps to revert back.
Liquid glass is not entirely gone
It’s satisfying to see liquid glass send off its farewell, but there’s still a trace of it left on your device post-update. While the colored mode eliminates those irritating transparent panels, it doesn’t get rid of other UI elements scattered throughout the operating system—like liquid bubble icons and flashy animations. They’re still lurking around. But, you know, at least we get to enjoy the softer, matte finish from previous iOS versions.
What’s next? More changes on the horizon?
The introduction of a tinted liquid glass option may seem minor at first glance, but it signifies a larger shift in Apple’s strategy. Traditionally, the company has been known to stick to its guns when it comes to hardware and software decisions. There’s that famous quote from Steve Jobs about how people don’t know what they want until it’s shown to them. Apple rarely bows to user feedback.
Yet, the tinted liquid glass feature acts as a quiet acknowledgment that the company’s earlier design choices might have missed the mark. It shows that Apple is now more receptive to the passionate feedback from its customers. This could mean that if future updates spark criticism, the company may be more inclined to make adjustments.
If you’ve got thoughts on iOS 26 or liquid glass, feel free to share your opinions below. We’re all ears!
Get iOS 26.1 now
Tinted liquid glass isn’t the sole addition featured in iOS 26.1. The update also packs other improvements and bug fixes, like better alarm controls, new gestures for switching songs in Apple Music, and customizable workout plans in the Fitness app.
To update, just head to the Settings app on your iPhone, tap on General, and go to the Software Update section. If it’s blank, swipe down to refresh and install iOS 26.1. Then circle back to this article to follow the steps to completely remove that pesky clear liquid glass layer. Your eyes will appreciate it.
