Archive — US — techcrunch
How to customize your iPhone Home Screen for iOS 26’s Liquid Glass
Apple's iOS 26 introduces the Liquid Glass design, enhancing customization options for iPhone users. Key features include translucent icons, widgets, and a 3D effect for wallpapers. Inspired by mixed-reality tech, these updates allow for unique personalization of the Home Screen and Lock Screen while aligning with trends towards augmented and virtual reality.
Key points
- iOS 26 launches with Liquid Glass design, a major interface change since 2013.
- Liquid Glass enhances translucency across various iOS elements, encouraging user customization.
- Customization options include clear and tinted icons, glassy widgets, and a sophisticated Lock Screen typeface.
- The update's design aligns with Apple's potential shift towards AR/VR capabilities, especially related to smart glasses.
- Improved customization tools allow users to match icons with device colors and personalize wallpapers.
Why it matters
- Historical shift from skeuomorphic to flat design in 2013 laid groundwork for current design trends.
- The rise of augmented reality devices influences software design, indicative of broader tech trends anticipated in 2025.
- The focus on user customization reflects ongoing consumer desires for personalized tech experiences amid increasing competition.
The iOS 26 Liquid Glass design not only modernizes the iPhone interface but also sets the stage for future AR integration, showcasing Apple's commitment to personalization while responding to evolving user expectations and tech trends.