iOS 26 Review: A Practical & Playful Update
▼ Summary
– iOS 26 introduces a new “Liquid Glass” design, the most significant visual overhaul since 2013, featuring a glassy, bubbly look and pared-down controls.
– The update includes new Apple Intelligence AI integration, with features ranging from Genmoji abilities to live translation for Phones, Messages, and FaceTime.
– Some AI-based features in iOS 26 are overhyped, unreliable, or not very useful, but the review focuses on updates that benefit both mainstream and power users.
– Liquid Glass adds a frosted, translucent appearance and fluid motion to actions like pulling down menus, with windows reflecting underlying content.
– The dynamic visuals and motion of Liquid Glass are especially pronounced on iPhones due to touch interaction, and it is now part of most Apple consumer devices including Macs and Apple TVs.
The latest iOS 26 release introduces a fresh visual language and practical enhancements that refine the user experience while integrating thoughtful AI capabilities. This update marks a significant shift in Apple’s design philosophy, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional improvements that cater to everyday users.
Central to the update is the new Liquid Glass interface, which represents the most substantial visual overhaul in over a decade. Unlike the flat minimalism of earlier versions, this design incorporates translucent, fluid elements that respond dynamically to touch. Menus and controls exhibit a subtle glass-like texture, with frosted effects and animated responses that make interactions feel more tactile and engaging. For instance, pulling down the Control Center causes icons to stretch and shift with your finger’s movement, while app menus reflect underlying content with a soft, blurred transparency.
This cohesive design extends beyond the iPhone, appearing across Apple’s ecosystem including Macs and Apple TV, but it feels most intuitive on the touchscreen. The playful yet polished animations, like the way Safari’s menu adopts colors from the webpage beneath it, add depth without overwhelming usability. While the new look may require a short adjustment period, its streamlined controls and consistent visual language contribute to a more integrated and enjoyable interaction with the device.
(Source: Ars Technica)
