iOS 26.1: Adjust Liquid Glass Transparency - New Feature

iOS 26.1 Update: Enhanced Customization Options

A new iOS update, released on Monday for compatible devices, is now available. While it doesn't introduce groundbreaking features, it delivers a frequently requested adjustment: control over the opacity of the translucent liquid glass design.

Adjusting Liquid Glass Transparency

Previously, users dissatisfied with the iOS 26 aesthetic could only lessen transparency through accessibility settings, effectively disabling the liquid glass overlay. iOS 26.1 introduces a dedicated menu allowing users to maintain the visual effect while increasing opacity.

To modify this setting, navigate to Settings > Display & Brightness > Liquid Glass. There, you can choose between the original “Clear” setting or a more subdued “Tinted” option. A live preview is provided for each selection.

Design Reception and User Feedback

The liquid glass design represented Apple’s most significant interface overhaul since the transition to a flat design in 2013. However, as with substantial design shifts, opinions have been divided.

Some users reported that the increased translucency hindered readability of interface elements, such as notifications and in-app navigation. Conversely, others appreciated the detail and considered it a necessary refresh to an interface that had become dated.

Additional Features and Improvements

Beyond the liquid glass transparency controls, iOS 26.1 introduces customization for home screen gestures. A new option allows users to launch the camera app by swiping left on the lock screen. This functionality is configured via Settings > Camera > Lock Screen Swipe to Open Camera.

Furthermore, the update enables local recording of audio and video during video calls. This feature proves beneficial for recording calls or podcasts while mobile, and was initially announced for iPadOS during the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) in June.

Expanded Language Support

iOS 26.1 expands support for Apple Intelligence to include eight additional languages: Chinese (Traditional), Danish, Dutch, Norwegian, Swedish, Portuguese (Portugal), Vietnamese, and Turkish. Live translation capabilities are also extended to five new languages: Chinese (Simplified), Chinese (Traditional), Italian, Japanese, and Korean.

Quality of Life Enhancements

Several quality-of-life improvements are included in this release. These include gesture controls for song changes within Apple Music, a slider for stopping alarms to prevent accidental dismissal, and an option for automatic security update installation.

To install the update, go to Settings > General > Software update.