The highly anticipated iOS 26 update is now available for iPhone users, but many are expressing dissatisfaction with one particular aspect: the Liquid Glass dark mode icons. Reports indicate that these icons may appear crooked due to a peculiar rendering issue. Specifically, the system applies a highlight around the edges of the icons, which, when viewed at certain angles, creates an optical illusion that makes them look tilted.
In motion, the distortion caused by the Liquid Glass effect is typically less noticeable. However, users have pointed out that screenshots can exhibit a significant visual discrepancy. This has sparked a lively debate between Android and iOS enthusiasts, with fans from both camps eagerly discussing the merits and flaws of their preferred platforms. While many iOS users feel a sense of frustration over the latest update, Android fans are quick to point out their own platform's design challenges.
Since its inception, Apple’s Liquid Glass design for iOS 26 has been met with mixed reactions. As the update rolls out to a larger audience, users are increasingly vocal about their discomfort with certain design decisions. A Reddit user, tantunidevourer, highlighted the issue in the iOS subreddit, bringing attention to how the lighting effect in dark mode can create an unsettling visual experience. The lighting casts highlights that can make icons appear slightly askew, even when their shapes remain unchanged.
Interestingly, users who have not activated low-power mode may notice that these specular highlights shift as they move their iPhones, exacerbating the problem. While this might be an extreme case, it has led to a wave of disappointment among those who recently upgraded. In fairness, Android is not without its own design challenges, particularly when it comes to universal icon color theming. However, for many, the current iOS 26 experience feels disorienting, prompting the question: does Apple need to address these issues more thoroughly?
Are you one of the users experiencing issues with the Liquid Glass dark mode icons? Or do you think the critiques are overblown? We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below. Whether you’re defending Apple’s design choices or engaging in some light-hearted banter with fellow tech enthusiasts, your voice matters. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on the latest in tech news!