Liquid Glass, Apple’s latest design system, aims to make digital interfaces feel more three-dimensional. It’s about making buttons and menus appear as if they sit directly on the screen, like real glass. Users flip through various features, and at first glance, it all seems impressive.
I’ve tested Liquid Glass on several Apple devices, and it has improved significantly. Initially, the menus were so clear they were almost transparent. They are now more frosted, making them easier to read. However, I’ve noticed that the new system drains the battery of my iPhone 16. It’s manageable, but still a concern.
Despite these improvements, the concept of Liquid Glass doesn’t fully land. Apple appears to be forcing the same design across devices that serve different purposes. For example, while it may work well on upcoming AR headsets, it feels cluttered on the iPhone. The innovative design struggles to blend with full-screen apps, making elements jarring rather than seamless.
Apple’s current approach reflects a larger trend towards merging features across devices. This fall, expect to see a full-featured Phone app for Macs and enhanced widget functionality on iPads. While it’s a bold move, it contrasts sharply with Apple’s historical focus on tailoring experiences for specific devices.
Interestingly, this shift parallels Apple’s past move toward a more “flat” design in iOS 7, which discarded unnecessary visuals for a clearer, more functional aesthetic. Now, they’re attempting to create depth and texture in a way that may not make sense across all devices.
User reactions have been mixed. Many appreciate the visually appealing aspects, while others express frustration with functionality. For instance, a recent survey indicated that over 60% of users found it harder to read notifications with the new design, particularly on busy wallpapers or when using Safari.
Long-term, Apple seems to bet on a future where AR and VR will blur the line between the digital and physical. But in our current reality, where screen use varies widely, many users are craving clarity and simplicity. As David Pierce succinctly said, “Just show me the time.”
For those curious about design trends, consider exploring Apple’s design principles to see how they evolve over time.
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