Apple Refines Liquid Glass in iOS 26 Beta 2
With the arrival of iOS 26 Beta 2, Apple has taken steps to improve its controversial Liquid Glass interface. Announced earlier this month at WWDC 2025, Liquid Glass introduced a sleek, refractive design meant to modernize the iOS experience across iPhone, iPad, and other Apple devices. While visually striking, the first beta faced immediate pushback from testers.
Early users voiced concerns over readability and functionality. In particular, the semi-transparent Control Center made it difficult to distinguish buttons from Home Screen icons underneath. Though this issue wasn’t entirely unexpected in a beta, users quickly shared examples online.
“yeah i cant defend this” – @AnxiousHolly
Fortunately, Apple responded. In Beta 2, the background blur for the Control Center has been adjusted. Now, it more effectively separates interface elements from background clutter. Comparisons between the two betas clearly show an improvement in legibility.
“The background blur in Control Center changed to make readability better.” – @basvanderploeg
Additionally, while notification clarity has seen some enhancement, feedback suggests it remains imperfect. On lighter backgrounds especially, text still struggles to stand out. Despite this, the update signals that Apple is engaging with user input and fine-tuning ahead of the public release.
Visual Refinement Meets a Push for Customization
Although iOS 26 looks visually refined, many users are calling for more control. Critics argue that without the ability to adjust transparency or layout elements, the system prioritizes design over usability. Several have requested the option to personalize aspects like Control Center appearance.
“Users want control—let us customize Control Center layout and adjust blur/transparency levels.” – @craigmlambo22
Apple has not yet commented on potential customization features. Nevertheless, the conversation reveals a growing demand for a more flexible user interface. As updates continue through the summer, further refinements remain likely.
More Features Arrive With Beta 2
Beyond interface changes, iOS 26 Beta 2 introduces several functional improvements. For instance, Apple has added a new Accessibility section to App Store product pages, providing better visibility into app support features. In addition, iCloud sync is now available for the Journaling app on iPads.
Apple Wallet gains order tracking functionality, a long-requested feature. Meanwhile, Apple Music users will notice the arrival of a new Radio widget. Although the final release won’t come until the fall, Beta 2 demonstrates Apple’s commitment to shaping iOS 26 through active iteration.
