After months of speculation, Apple has officially presented its major iOS 26 ‘Liquid Glass’ redesign, already generating excitement for the upcoming iPhone 17 Air. Here’s the reason why.
### Liquid Glass Integrates iPhone Hardware and Software More Cohesively Than Ever
The new Liquid Glass design of iOS 26 and Apple’s other platforms signifies a long-term transformation. As Craig Federighi mentioned in the keynote, this represents a once-in-a-decade transition for Apple, laying the groundwork for years of future hardware advancements.
The more one reflects on the new design of iOS 26, the more enthusiasm grows for the iPhone 17 Air. By the time iOS 26 launches this fall, Apple will have just introduced its new ultra-slim iPhone model, which was certainly crafted with Liquid Glass in mind.
Designer Sebastiaan de With effectively expressed the idea well before WWDC, noting that Apple’s interface finally reflects the stunning material qualities of its devices. With all device surfaces featuring glass screens, this fresh interface provides a corresponding material, allowing users to feel the glass itself coming to life.
With Liquid Glass, iOS 26 looks to harmoniously combine the iPhone’s hardware and software, establishing a closer relationship than ever before. This combination is anticipated to excel on the ultra-sleek new iPhone 17 Air.
### Why iPhone 17 Air Might Be the Ideal Match for iOS 26
During the WWDC keynote, as Federighi demonstrated iOS 26 on his iPhone, it became clear that the current iPhone design appeared antiquated for the new software. The thick, cumbersome design of existing models does not appear to align well with Liquid Glass.
Liquid Glass seems to be designed for devices where the display serves as the primary design feature, embodying the envisioned “single slab of glass” design that Jony Ive has pursued for years. This dream is anticipated to be fully manifested in 2027 with a unique 20th anniversary ‘all-screen’ iPhone, but for this year, the iPhone 17 Air appears to be the best realization of this concept.
Liquid Glass will undoubtedly represent a refreshing change for all iPhone models, yet the iPhone 17 Air, with its dramatically sleek design, could reflect a glimpse of the future today. The design of iOS 26 and Liquid Glass is tailored for slimmer, lighter iPhones, which is precisely what the iPhone 17 Air aims to offer.
### Conclusion
The excitement around iOS 26’s Liquid Glass design and its synergy with the iPhone 17 Air underscores a significant shift in Apple’s design approach. The seamless integration of hardware and software promises to elevate user experience, making the forthcoming iPhone model more enticing than ever.
