Apple has officially introduced iOS 26 with a major redesign called ‘Liquid Glass,’ a change described by Craig Federighi as a once-in-a-decade shift. This new interface aims to create a seamless blend between iPhone hardware and software, setting the foundation for future hardware innovations.
The Liquid Glass design emphasizes an interface that mirrors the glass surfaces of Apple devices, enhancing the sense of the glass display coming alive. Designer Sebastiaan de With described it as an interface matching the material qualities of Apple’s products.
Many see this design best suited for ultra-thin devices where the display dominates the design, minimizing distractions from other elements. This aligns with Apple’s long-standing vision of a “single slab of glass” design, which is expected to be fully realized with the special 20th anniversary iPhone set for 2027.
In the near term, the upcoming iPhone 17 Air is garnering particular anticipation due to its radically sleek, lightweight design, making it an ideal match for iOS 26’s Liquid Glass interface. Current thicker iPhone models may feel less fitting for this new design aesthetic.
While Liquid Glass will enhance all iPhone models with iOS 26, the iPhone 17 Air could best deliver a preview of Apple’s future direction with this clean, glass-centric design.
Do you think the Liquid Glass design increases the appeal of the iPhone 17 Air? Share your thoughts in the comments.