iOS 26 design changes explained: Liquid Glass, icons & interface tweaks

💡 Need to know

• Glossy upgrade: Liquid Glass makes your screen feel more dynamic, not just pretty.
• Icons got a facelift: System apps now shift with light and motion.
• You’re still in control: Customize Control Center and reduce motion if it’s too much.

Apple’s iOS® 26 update didn’t just change how your iPhone® works—it changed how it looks. From shimmering Liquid Glass effects to smoother navigation and redesigned app icons, this update is packed with visual upgrades.

Asurion Experts help customers get used to new iOS features every day. Here’s what’s new in the design of iOS 26—and how to tweak it to your liking.

What is Liquid Glass in iOS 26?

Liquid Glass is Apple’s name for the new layered effect added to buttons, menus, and alerts in iOS 26. It gives everything a subtle sheen and depth, especially when you move your phone or switch between apps.

It’s similar to the blurred-glass style Apple introduced years ago, but more fluid. You’ll see this effect in app switchers, notification popups, and Control Center.

If it feels too distracting, you can tone it down:Go to Settings > Accessibility > Motion > Reduce Transparency, and toggle it on.

App icon redesigns

Apple® gave most of its system icons a fresh coat of paint in iOS 26. They now respond to lighting and shift slightly with movement—similar to what you see in the Dynamic Island or Live Wallpapers.

It’s subtle, but it makes your Home Screen feel more alive.

Want to switch things up even more? Try a different Focus Mode and assign it a new Lock Screen wallpaper and icon theme.

Updated Control Center navigation

Control Center got a usability upgrade too. Now you can customize what shows up, rearrange tiles, and even add third-party app controls.

To customize it:Go to Settings > Control Center and tap the + or – icons to make changes.

If you use Smart Home features, add widgets for lights, garage doors, or cameras for quicker access.

Better one-handed access

Apple repositioned key menus like Share Sheets and pop-up alerts so they appear lower on the screen. This makes them easier to reach, especially on Pro Max models.

It’s a small tweak—but you’ll notice it after just a few taps.

Visual haptics and animations

Animations are smoother across the OS, from switching apps to unlocking your phone. iOS 26 also adds “visual haptics”—subtle glows or shifts in brightness when you interact with certain buttons.

If that’s too much motion for you, go to Settings > Accessibility > Motion > Reduce Motion.

FAQ

What is Liquid Glass in iOS 26? It’s a new layered design that makes popups and controls feel more fluid and responsive, with subtle lighting and movement.

Can I turn off the iOS 26 design effects? Yes. Go to Settings > Accessibility > Motion and toggle on Reduce Motion or Reduce Transparency.

Why do my icons look different after updating? iOS 26 includes an icon refresh for Apple apps. They now react to light and motion for a more dynamic feel.

How do I change Control Center in iOS 26? Go to Settings > Control Center to add, remove, or reorder tiles—even from third-party apps.