While the iPhone may not make a revolutionary leap in artificial intelligence this year, Apple is completely transforming the look of its operating systems. During WWDC 25 (the Worldwide Developers Conference), the company unveiled “Liquid Glass,” a new interface that redefines software aesthetics with glossy, translucent, and reflective visual elements, delivering a sleek and futuristic appearance.
This redesign, influenced by the Vision Pro headset’s style, aims to unify the visual experience across all Apple devices—from the iPhone to future augmented reality wearables. The strategy suggests that, in the near future, Apple’s ecosystem could expand beyond traditional screens, integrating digital interfaces into AR glasses and other devices.
A Before-and-After Moment in iOS Design
Alan Dye, Apple’s VP of Design, introduced Liquid Glass, marking the most significant visual evolution of iOS since the shift from skeuomorphism to flat design in 2013 with iOS 7.
- Skeuomorphism: Mimicked real-world objects (like a yellow notepad in the Notes app).
- Flat Design: Simplified the interface with solid colors, clean lines, and minimalism.
- Liquid Glass: Combines transparency, dynamic reflections, and depth effects, drawing inspiration from the optical qualities of glass.
Key Innovations of Liquid Glass
- Advanced Visual Effects: The interface refracts light and responds to motion, creating a more immersive experience.
- Adaptability: Automatically adjusts to light or dark environments, with interactive elements (like notifications and menus) reacting to touch with fluid animations.
- Redesigned Icons: Appear crafted from layered glass, available in light, dark, and a new transparent mode.
With this bold move, Apple isn’t just modernizing its OS—it’s laying the groundwork for deeper device integration, paving the way for the next generation of digital interactions.
By: Nestor Castillo, ForAllTechNews Director