Apple has just launched iOS 26 beta 3, the most recent version in its series of developer-exclusive betas, ahead of the expected public beta rollout. This release upholds Apple’s commitment to enhancing its operating system by adding new functionalities and resolving current issues. A primary emphasis of this update is the ongoing evolution of the Liquid Glass design, which has received more modifications since beta 2.
The Liquid Glass design, a striking new visual style introduced in iOS 26, has stirred debate among users. Initially lauded for its fresh take on transparency in several UI components, such as buttons and text, user feedback from the previous betas revealed that the extreme transparency rendered certain menus, including the Control Center and Notifications, hard to read, especially for those with visual challenges.
In light of this feedback, Apple implemented changes in beta 2 to enhance readability by improving contrast and lessening transparency. These modifications were mostly well-received as they enhanced the user-friendliness of Notifications and the Control Center.
With beta 3, Apple has persisted in refining the Liquid Glass design, choosing a more opaque look. This alteration has elicited mixed responses, with some users voicing disappointment, believing the design now resembles frosted glass instead of the originally envisioned transparency.
Regardless of these critiques, the beta testing phase is essential for Apple to collect user insights and implement required changes before the public launch. The company has included a “Reduce transparency” option in the Accessibility settings for users favoring less transparency.
As Apple approaches the public beta release, it will be intriguing to observe how the Liquid Glass design progresses and whether additional adjustments will be made to strike a balance between aesthetics and usability. The continuous input from beta testers will undoubtedly be pivotal in influencing the final iteration of iOS 26.
