Apple’s iOS 26 Liquid Glass Takes Spotlight: What’s New Compared to iOS 18?
While Liquid Glass stole the show at WWDC, iOS 26 offers many new features, marking a major step forward in Apple’s mobile software evolution.
At the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) last week, Apple revealed a new design style called ‘Liquid Glass’ in its iOS 26 upgrade. Inspired by VisionOS, it features translucent effects and shiny, glass-like edges on icons and menus. Apple has created the design to feel more fluid and responsive. It will soon appear across iPhone, iPad, and Mac in upcoming software updates.
While Liquid Glass stole the spotlight at WWDC, iOS 26 offers much more. There are many features packed in this software upgrade that firmly positions it as the next major step in Apple’s mobile software evolution.
Apple has skipped the iOS 19 name entirely and jumped straight to iOS 26.
Here’s How iOS18 and iOS26 Are Different
In iOS 26, the dock and the search bar between the dock and home screen icons are more transparent with glossy edges. In contrast, iOS 18 features a darker, more opaque look in these areas. The latest version of iOS also brings subtle tweaks, such as icons appearing slightly larger. Moreover, those icons like 'Settings', 'Camera' and 'Mail' show more noticeable design updates than others.
To enhance the user experience with a fresh, visually engaging interaction, Apple has levelled up its game by refining small details like unlocking the device. In iOS 26, unlocking your iPhone feels like “lifting” a sheet of glass. A shiny edge appears as you slide your finger up, which adds depth and a polished visual effect to the motion.
In iOS 26, the digital clock resizes dynamically based on your wallpaper and notification count. This neat update will certainly impress all Apple fans. While iOS 18 lets you customize the clock’s style, its size remains fixed regardless of what's on the lock screen.
iOS 26 introduces dynamic tab bars that adapt based on your actions. This new addition to Apple’s OS will change depending on whether you're scrolling or trying to perform a specific action. Unlike iOS 18, this new feature helps cut down on menu diving while also offering a sleeker, more modern look.
