Apple adds granular control for Liquid Glass interface in iOS 27
A new customization slider allows users to tune the intensity of iOS 27's glossy aesthetic to improve readability.
Apple has introduced a new customization slider for the "Liquid Glass" interface effect in iOS 27, granting users precise control over the system's visual style. The update replaces the rigid toggles of previous versions, allowing for a more tailored balance between aesthetics and utility.
Located in Settings > Appearance > Liquid Glass, the new slider enables users to adjust the intensity of the glossy effect. According to confirmed reports, the tool allows the interface to be tuned from "Ultra Clear" to "Fully Tinted," effectively letting users decide how opaque or transparent their system elements appear. This software update is compatible with iPhone 11 models and newer.
The evolution of Liquid Glass
Liquid Glass is a translucent, glossy design language developed by Apple to modernize the iPhone's visual identity. While the aesthetic provides a high-end, depth-heavy look, it has historically been a point of contention for users who prioritize clarity over style. Previous iterations of the interface relied on binary on/off switches, which often left users choosing between a style they disliked or a lack of visual depth.
Balancing style and accessibility
This shift toward granular control indicates a strategic response to ongoing accessibility and readability concerns. High-gloss interfaces can often be distracting or difficult to read depending on lighting conditions and individual visual needs. By implementing a slider, Apple is attempting to reconcile its modern design goals with the practical requirements of its user base, ensuring that the interface remains functional without sacrificing the signature Liquid Glass look.
What to watch
While the core customization tools are now available to the public, the industry is watching to see if Apple will expand these granular controls to other design elements across its ecosystem. It remains to be seen if similar transparency adjustments will be integrated into iPadOS or macOS to create a unified approach to accessibility across all Apple devices.