Apple Introduces Clear Icons Featuring Innovative Liquid Glass Design

Apple’s approach to icon design has evolved significantly, recently culminating in the introduction of a new aesthetic called Liquid Glass. This was highlighted during the 2025 WWDC keynote, where the term was frequently mentioned. Liquid Glass represents Apple’s latest design language, aiming for a cohesive look across all its operating systems—including macOS, watchOS, visionOS, tvOS, iPadOS, and iOS. While the design may vary slightly across platforms, the introduction of Liquid Glass creates a more unified experience.

Users will first encounter this new design on their iPhones when iOS 26 launches in Fall 2025. But what exactly is Liquid Glass? According to Apple, it is a “translucent material” that reflects and refracts its surroundings, adapting dynamically to enhance focus on content. Essentially, much of the interface is designed to be transparent.

This approach also signifies a broader integration of software and hardware, creating an intuitive and aesthetically pleasing environment. Menus become contextual, and buttons are designed to fade away when not in use. Users can opt for completely translucent icons, a feature that has received mixed reactions. While some embrace the sleek look, others might find it reminiscent of the shift from iOS 6 to iOS 7, a change that caused divisive opinions among users.

However, many anticipate that the transition to Liquid Glass will feel less jarring than previous updates. Accessibility remains a concern with this new design. Despite having good eyesight, I recognize that millions of Americans—approximately 8.3 million—identify as blind or have low vision. They often rely on features like text size adjustments and contrast settings to navigate their devices.

Thankfully, Apple is likely to maintain accessibility options, allowing users to choose from light mode, dark mode, or tinted icons, ensuring that the new design does not alienate those with visual impairments. Overall, while Liquid Glass may not appeal to everyone, it seems Apple is mindful of inclusivity in its latest design venture.