Apple Adds iOS 26.4 Controls to Soften Liquid Glass Effects
Updated
Updated · PCMag · May 11
Apple Adds iOS 26.4 Controls to Soften Liquid Glass Effects
6 articles · Updated · PCMag · May 11
iOS 26.4 adds a new Accessibility option that reduces some of Liquid Glass’s bright lighting effects, giving users another way to make Apple’s 2025 redesign easier on the eyes.
Settings already let users cut transparency on iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch, while Reduce Motion now also applies to Liquid Glass effects.
Apple had introduced broader visual controls in iOS 26.1, including Clear and Tinted Liquid Glass modes, with darker and more opaque settings improving contrast and readability.
The added controls respond to complaints that the translucent interface can obscure menus and controls, with some users saying the look is uncomfortable or even nauseating.
As 'Liquid Glass' causes accessibility issues, is Apple repeating the same design mistakes it made with its iOS 7 launch?
With users resisting the new look, will Apple’s WWDC26 fixes be enough to save its controversial design philosophy?