# iOS 26: The Launch of Transparent App Icons and Liquid Glass Aesthetic
iOS 26 represents a notable advancement in Apple’s mobile operating system, showcasing a comprehensive redesign marked by transparent features referred to as **Liquid Glass**. This update not only improves the visual charm of the iPhone but also brings entirely new app icons for Apple’s native applications. Among the most notable transformations is the capacity to render each app icon on the Home Screen transparent, providing users with a sleek and contemporary appearance.
## How to Activate Clear Icon Style
To adjust your app icons for a transparent look, adhere to these instructions:
1. Press and hold on an empty space on the Home Screen until the icons start to wiggle.
2. Tap **Edit** at the top left corner.
3. Select **Customize**, the second choice in the list presented.
4. Choose **Clear** from the Customize options at the screen’s bottom. Clear is the third icon type.
5. By default, **Light appearance** is selected. You may also opt for **Dark** or **Auto**, which changes based on the active light or dark mode.
6. Tap anywhere on your Home Screen to confirm your adjustments.
If you wish to return to full-color icons, simply repeat the initial three steps and choose **Default** instead of **Clear**. iOS 26 presents extra features, including the option to always use Dark icons or to switch automatically between Default and Dark icons based on the system’s light or dark mode. The revamped **Tinted** choice merges aspects of the Clear icon style with new Light and Dark options, along with the Auto feature.
## Clear Icon Style on iPad and Mac
The customization features introduced in iOS 26 extend beyond the iPhone. **iPadOS 26** offers the same functionalities for iPads, while **macOS Tahoe 26** brings dark icons alongside clear and tinted options for the Mac for the first time. Users can follow the same process to set iPad app icons to Clear, and on the Mac, the Clear mode can be accessed via **Settings > Appearance > Icon & widget style**.
For both iPhone and iPad, users have the ability to create multiple Home Screens by long-pressing on their Lock Screen and adjusting the app icon style for each. The Clear icon style also influences the visual aesthetics of Home Screen widgets. Although the absence of color may lead to challenges in identifying apps via their icons, the light Clear option signifies a daring shift in the Home Screen, reminiscent of the introduction of widgets. The futuristic design of light Clear icons is particularly impressive on the iPad.
## Conclusion
With the unveiling of Clear app icons and the Liquid Glass design in iOS 26, Apple continues to redefine mobile interface aesthetics. Users are encouraged to explore these innovative features and express their preferences concerning app icon styles. The question lingers: could Clear icons become a staple choice for users, and should Apple contemplate extending this feature to the Apple Watch and Apple TV? The discussion remains open.
