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ios 26 lets you reduce liquid glass Apple’s latest operating system, iOS 26, introduces a striking new design element known as Liquid Glass, but users who prefer the aesthetics of earlier versions can revert to a more familiar interface reminiscent of iOS 18.

ios 26 lets you reduce liquid glass

Introduction to iOS 26

Launched in September 2025, iOS 26 marks a significant evolution in Apple’s mobile operating system. With a focus on aesthetics and user experience, the update introduces a new design philosophy characterized by its Liquid Glass interface. This design aims to provide a more fluid and visually appealing experience, incorporating elements that mimic the look and feel of glass. However, not all users are enamored with this change, prompting many to seek ways to revert to the more traditional interface found in iOS 18.

Understanding Liquid Glass Design

The Liquid Glass design is a bold departure from previous iterations of iOS. It emphasizes transparency, smooth transitions, and a more immersive experience. The design aims to create a sense of depth and fluidity, allowing users to interact with their devices in a more engaging manner. Key features of the Liquid Glass design include:

Translucent Elements: Many interface components are now semi-transparent, allowing for a layered visual effect.
Smooth Animations: Transitions between apps and menus are designed to be seamless, enhancing the overall user experience.
Dynamic Backgrounds: The backgrounds can change based on user interactions, creating a more personalized feel.

While these features are designed to enhance usability and aesthetics, they may not resonate with all users. Some individuals prefer the simplicity and familiarity of the older iOS versions, particularly iOS 18, which had a more straightforward and less visually complex interface.

Reasons for Reverting to iOS 18 Style

There are several reasons why users might want to revert to a design reminiscent of iOS 18:

Familiarity: Long-time iPhone users may find comfort in the layout and design of iOS 18, which they have grown accustomed to over the years.
Performance Concerns: Some users report that the new Liquid Glass design can be resource-intensive, potentially affecting the performance of older devices.
Usability Preferences: The simplicity of iOS 18 may be more appealing for users who prioritize functionality over aesthetics.

Understanding these motivations is crucial for Apple as it continues to evolve its operating system. User feedback can guide future updates and design choices, ensuring that the needs of a diverse user base are met.

How to Revert to iOS 18-Like Features

If you find the Liquid Glass design of iOS 26 to be overwhelming or simply not to your taste, there are several steps you can take to modify your device’s appearance and functionality to resemble iOS 18 more closely. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to achieve this:

Step 1: Adjusting Display Settings

The first step in reverting to an iOS 18-like experience is to adjust your display settings. This can help reduce the visual complexity of the Liquid Glass design:

Reduce Transparency: Navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Display & Text Size and toggle on the Reduce Transparency option. This will make interface elements more opaque and less visually complex.
Increase Contrast: In the same menu, you can also enable Increase Contrast to enhance the visibility of text and interface elements, making them easier to interact with.

Step 2: Customizing Home Screen Layout

Another way to achieve a more familiar look is by customizing your Home Screen layout:

Remove Widgets: If you have added widgets that are part of the Liquid Glass design, consider removing them. Tap and hold on the widget, then select Remove Widget.
Rearrange Apps: Organize your apps into folders or a grid layout that resembles the iOS 18 interface. This can help create a more traditional feel.

Step 3: Changing Wallpaper

The wallpaper on your device can significantly impact its overall appearance. To revert to a more classic look:

Select a Static Wallpaper: Go to Settings > Wallpaper > Choose a New Wallpaper. Opt for a static image rather than a dynamic or live wallpaper to maintain a simpler aesthetic.

Step 4: Modifying App Icons

While iOS 26 introduces new app icons that fit the Liquid Glass theme, you can customize them to resemble those from iOS 18:

Use Shortcuts App: Open the Shortcuts app, create a new shortcut, and select Add Action. Choose Open App and select the app you want to customize. Then tap on the three dots in the upper right corner, select Add to Home Screen, and customize the icon.

Implications of User Preferences

The ability to modify the user interface to resemble previous versions highlights an essential aspect of software design: user preference. Apple has historically been responsive to user feedback, and the introduction of customization options in iOS 26 indicates a recognition of the diverse needs of its user base.

By allowing users to revert to a more familiar interface, Apple not only enhances user satisfaction but also fosters a sense of ownership over the device. This flexibility can lead to increased loyalty among users who appreciate the ability to tailor their experience.

Stakeholder Reactions

Reactions to the Liquid Glass design and the ability to revert to an iOS 18-like interface have been varied:

Users: Many users have expressed their opinions on social media and forums, with some praising the new design for its modernity, while others lament the loss of the simplicity they enjoyed in iOS 18.
Developers: App developers have noted that the new design may require adjustments to their applications to ensure compatibility with the Liquid Glass aesthetic. This can lead to additional development time and resources.
Industry Analysts: Analysts have commented on Apple’s strategy, suggesting that the company is attempting to balance innovation with user familiarity. The ability to customize the interface may be seen as a way to mitigate potential backlash from users resistant to change.

Conclusion

iOS 26 represents a significant shift in Apple’s design philosophy with its introduction of the Liquid Glass interface. While this new aesthetic aims to enhance user experience through transparency and fluidity, it may not appeal to everyone. Fortunately, Apple has provided users with the tools necessary to customize their devices, allowing them to revert to a more familiar look reminiscent of iOS 18.

As Apple continues to innovate, the feedback from users will be crucial in shaping future updates and designs. The balance between modern aesthetics and user familiarity will remain a key consideration as the company navigates the evolving landscape of mobile technology.

Source: Original report