Apple's iOS 26.1 Beta Introduces Customizable Liquid Glass Display Options for iPhone Users

Apple originally released iOS 26 on September 15 with a new visual feature that has received mixed reactions from users.

The tech giant has now developed a solution for iPhone users who aren't fond of the Liquid Glass interface introduced in iOS 26. With the recent iOS 26.1 beta 4 update, Apple has implemented customization options that allow users to adjust the transparency effect according to their preferences.

When iOS 26 launched in mid-September, it brought a translucent Liquid Glass interface to iPhones. While many users appreciated the modern aesthetic, others reported that the highly reflective surface caused visual discomfort and eye strain. Apple has evidently listened to this feedback in their latest beta release.

According to reporting by 9to5Mac, the iOS 26.1 beta introduces a new toggle feature that lets users choose between 'clear' and 'tinted' display modes. Users can access this new customization option by navigating to Settings > Display & Brightness > Liquid Glass.

Apple describes this feature as allowing users to "choose a preferred look for Liquid Glass." The Clear option preserves the original transparent appearance, while the Tinted setting adds opacity to improve contrast and potentially reduce eye strain.

This visual adjustment feature is not limited to iPhones - Apple is simultaneously testing similar settings in iPadOS 26.1 and macOS 26.1 beta versions.

Currently, the transparency adjustment option is only available in the developer beta, but Apple plans to release a public beta version soon. The full release of iOS 26.1 is anticipated to arrive in late October or early November.

iOS 26 initially launched on September 15 and is compatible with iPhone SE (2nd Generation) and all newer models, including the iPhone 17 series which came with the operating system preinstalled.