After a long wait for years, Apple has finally announced a redesign to iOS with a new ‘Liquid Glass’ design all over the system. This is the second major redesign of iOS after iOS 7 in 2013. Everything from icons to the System UI will now adapt to the surrounding elements with the translucent material.
According to Craig Federighi, Apple’s senior vice president of Software Engineering, “iOS 26 shines with the gorgeous new design and meaningful improvements to the features users rely on every day, making iPhone even more helpful,” “Experiences are more expressive and personal, from the Lock Screen and Home Screen, to new capabilities across Phone and Messages that help users focus on the connections that matter most. And with powerful new Apple Intelligence capabilities integrated across the system, users can get things done easier than ever.”
Here’s a look at the all-new design on iOS 26.
Lock Screen:
The first change which you’ll notice in the Lock Screen is the time, which takes inspiration from the ‘Liquid Glass’ design, and also adapts to the available space. Moreover, this new update brings the ability to convert your 2D photos into a 3D Wallpaper, the effect of which will be seen when users move their iPhone. The customizable two shortcuts at the bottom are also a part of this new design.
[videopress bAT4hNay]Home Screen & App Icons:
Similar to the Lock Screen, the Home Screen now has a new look with fresh icons and widgets that adapt with the ‘Liquid Glass’ Elements of iOS 26. This update will also allow you to have a clear look for your icons, if you want to go all in with the ‘Liquid Glass’ vibe.
System Apps and UI Elements:
The new design extends to all system apps, including Phone, Messages, Music, Maps, Photos, Camera Wallet, TV, and more.
Apple Music:
Apple Maps:
Messages:
Camera:
This new design is clearly inspired from visionOS, featuring a life-like interactive glass UI and has been implemented across all its major operating systems including iPadOS, macOS, tvOS, and watchOS. According to Apple,” The new material, Liquid Glass, is translucent and behaves like glass in the real world. Its color is informed by surrounding content and intelligently adapts between light and dark environments. Born out of a close collaboration between the design and engineering teams, Liquid Glass uses real-time rendering and dynamically reacts to movement with specular highlights. This creates a lively experience that makes using iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple Watch, and Apple TV even more delightful.”
iOS 26 is set to be released alongside the iPhone 17 series this fall. Are you thrilled about this new update? Show us your excitement down in the comments or tweet to us on @appleosophy! Be sure to download the Appleosophy App from the App Store or visit our website to stay updated with the latest Apple news!
