iOS 26 and Its Controversial Liquid Glass UI Now Available to the Public

Apple has begun rolling out iOS 26 to users worldwide. iPhones equipped with the A13 Bionic chip or newer can now update to the latest operating system, but Apple has stopped supporting OS updates on the older XR, XS, and XS Max models.

iOS 26's most notable change by far is its Liquid Glass design, which gives the home screen, lock screen, control center, and apps translucent, rounded visuals. The design is meant to adapt everyday features to user interaction and content. However, UX designers and developers have criticized the approach for its reduced readability, requiring Apple to step in and "frost" the design a bit to make text more legible.

The update also includes privacy improvements, like call and message screening, which puts texts from unknown senders in a special folder. Enhancements to Wallet now let users verify their IDs online and track luggage using digital boarding passes ...