Apple Introduces "Liquid Glass" Design in iOS 26, Marking Biggest iPhone Software Change in Years

Apple has rolled out its most significant iPhone software overhaul in years with the introduction of the "Liquid Glass" design, alongside iOS 26 and updates across its entire ecosystem. The Wall Street Journal highlighted this as a transformative moment for users, stating, "Liquid Glass is here and your iPhone will never be the same." The comprehensive updates, including iOS 26, iPadOS 26, macOS Tahoe 26, watchOS 26, and tvOS 26, became available to users on September 15, 2025.

At the core of this update is the new "Liquid Glass" material, a translucent, reflective, and dynamic design element that unifies the aesthetic across Apple's platforms. Inspired by visionOS, this new visual language brings a softer, more rounded, and semi-transparent look to icons, notifications, buttons, and menus. Apple's Vice President of Human Interface Design, Alan Dye, described it as their "broadest software design update ever," combining optical qualities of glass with a unique fluidity.

Beyond the visual redesign, iOS 26 introduces a suite of new functionalities aimed at enhancing user experience. Key features include advanced call screening for unknown numbers and "Hold Assist," which waits on hold for users until a live agent is available. The update also brings a new Apple Games app, a revamped Photos app defaulting to a library view, and live translation capabilities integrated into Messages, FaceTime, and the Phone app.

The "Liquid Glass" design and new features extend beyond the iPhone, creating a more harmonious experience across devices. iPadOS 26 introduces a powerful new windowing system and an enhanced Files app, while macOS 26 Tahoe receives its biggest Spotlight update and integrates the full Phone app. Apple Watch users benefit from watchOS 26 with new sleep scores, FDA-cleared hypertension notifications, and the "Workout Buddy" feature for personalized audio insights during exercise.

While the design has been noted as "divisive" by some, Apple has also provided options for users, with The Wall Street Journal indicating that the update details "what you can undo, and what you’ll need to live with." This suggests a period of adaptation for users as they explore the extensive changes and new capabilities introduced across Apple's software ecosystem.