Apple has quietly introduced a highly requested feature in its latest iOS 26.1 update that gives iPhone users unprecedented control over the transparency of the Liquid Glass design interface. This significant enhancement addresses one of the most common user complaints since the launch of iOS 26.
What's New in iOS 26.1 Display Settings
The update introduces a dedicated setting that enables iPhone owners to fine-tune how see-through system elements appear across various interface components. Users can now adjust transparency levels for menus, notifications, and widgets according to their visual preferences and lighting conditions.
Previously, iPhone users only had the option to completely disable transparency through Accessibility settings, which resulted in a flattened interface that removed the layered aesthetic that defined iOS 26's visual identity. The new feature provides a middle ground solution that maintains the design's elegance while improving readability.
How to Access the New Transparency Controls
To utilize this new functionality, users must first update their iPhone to iOS 26.1 or later. The update is compatible with all devices supporting iOS 26, including iPhone 13 series and newer models such as iPhone 16, iPhone 16 Pro, and iPhone 17.
After completing the update, navigate to Settings > Display & Brightness > Liquid Glass to find the new control section. The interface provides a straightforward menu that allows real-time adjustment of how much background detail shows through interface elements.
Understanding the Two Transparency Options
The Liquid Glass menu offers two distinct transparency settings that cater to different user preferences and needs:
Clear Mode: This option maintains the original translucent appearance that debuted with iOS 26, preserving the full glass-like visual style that Apple initially introduced.
Tinted Mode: This setting reduces transparency, creating a slightly more solid appearance that can significantly improve text and icon readability, particularly in bright lighting conditions or for users with visual sensitivity.
The interface includes a live preview feature that demonstrates both options in real time, making it simple for users to compare and select their preferred transparency level before applying changes.
While not a complete design overhaul, this update represents Apple's responsiveness to user feedback regarding iOS 26's visual interface. The new transparency control provides an elegant solution for those who want to tone down the glossy finish without completely sacrificing the aesthetic appeal of the Liquid Glass design.
This enhancement makes the iPhone interface more adaptable to various lighting conditions and user preferences, demonstrating Apple's continued commitment to refining the user experience through incremental but meaningful software improvements.
