Liquid Glass Is Cracked, and Usability Suffers in iOS 26 (nngroup.com)

Article summary

The article discusses the new visual design language in iOS 26, called Liquid Glass, and how it affects usability. The author argues that the design prioritizes visual effects over usability, making it harder to read and use the interface. The article highlights several issues, including transparency, animated buttons, and crowded tap targets. The author concludes that Apple is prioritizing spectacle over usability.

Main themes

• iOS 26 design
• Usability issues
• Visual design
• Liquid Glass
• User experience

What commenters say

• The new design in iOS 26 is a step backward in terms of usability and functionality.
• Some users have found ways to improve performance by disabling certain features or adjusting settings, but this does not address the underlying design issues.
• The animation and visual effects in iOS 26 are seen as unnecessary and distracting by some, while others find them well-done and serving a purpose.
• The design changes in iOS 26 may be an attempt to create a new paradigm, but it is unclear if this will ultimately benefit users or lead to a decline in user experience.
• Downgrading to a previous version of iOS is possible, but only for a limited time, and some users have already done so due to the issues with iOS 26.
• The performance issues and lag experienced by some users may be related to the new design and animation, and reducing transparency or disabling certain features can help alleviate these problems.