Apple’s legacy of prioritizing aesthetics is set to take a bold step forward at WWDC 2025 as the company introduces a fresh design language inspired by glass elements. Imagine a world where the app icons, widgets, and windows on your iPhone, tablets, and desktops reflect the beauty of transparency and reflections. It’s an exciting evolution for design enthusiasts.
Industry insider Sebastiaan de With, a former Apple designer known for creating exceptional apps like Kino and Halide, humorously declared that after the WWDC keynote, the term “glassmorphism” would be obsolete.
Regardless, the focus on glass will be a prominent highlight. Alternatively, we might liken it to flowing water or the Zen philosophy that has been a recurring inspiration at Apple, famously echoed by co-founder Steve Jobs: “Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication.”
Apple has already hinted at its unified design philosophy through the operating system for the Vision Pro headset. This upcoming iteration won’t be the first time mainstream devices adopt glassmorphism, showing Apple’s commitment to its aesthetic roots.
What Is Glassmorphism?
Simply put, glassmorphism is a visual design style inspired by the properties of glass, featuring see-through effects, edge reflections, and depth perception. When this concept is applied to digital interfaces, it results in translucent UI elements and dynamic bokeh effects.
So, how does Apple plan to integrate glassmorphism across iOS 26, macOS 26, iPadOS 26, and watchOS 26? According to reports, Apple’s new interface elements, dubbed “Liquid Glass,” will exude gleam and transparency akin to a glassy surface. This fresh design aims to transition from flat 2D visuals to a more 3D experience, with layered elements that seem to float in digital space.
The aesthetic will employ blurred backgrounds contrasted against vivid colors, creating a frosted glass effect by juxtaposing the foreground with a gradient backdrop. This will not only produce visual depth but also elevate user interaction.
Is Glassmorphism New to Apple?
Although glassmorphism might seem novel, Apple has been slowly reintroducing this design concept since macOS Big Sur in 2020. Back then, the company embraced gradient minimalism paired with blurred backgrounds for an elegant user experience.
Today, elements of this design style are evident in macOS Sequoia’s Control Center, as well as in iPadOS app folders. Indeed, Apple has been exploring this aesthetic since iOS 7, eventually shifting toward a flatter design with solid colors—until now.
It’s important to note that Apple is not alone in this design realm. Microsoft has been using glass-inspired UI elements in various iterations of Windows, employing similar aesthetics to enhance user engagement.
Why Is Apple Focusing on This Now?
While we await a detailed look at Apple’s updated design language, rumors suggest that this shift aligns with the company’s goal of unifying the visual aesthetics across its products. According to Bloomberg, Apple aims to create a cohesive experience, utilizing transparency and shine effects throughout the interface.
This design overhaul is especially significant as Apple gears up for the 20th anniversary of the iPhone—a transformative device that revolutionized mobile technology. Combining curved glass aesthetics and a seamless screen design, Apple is set to shape a future where interactions feel more immersive than ever.
As we anticipate further updates, fans of Apple technology have a lot to look forward to. The upcoming iOS 26 redesign will reveal how seamlessly glassmorphism can marry functionality with beauty.
What is the main benefit of glassmorphism in UI design? The central advantage lies in its ability to create a more immersive user experience by providing depth and richness to interface elements.
How does glassmorphism enhance usability? It allows distinguishing between layers and functionalities, offering users clarity and visual appeal, which can significantly improve interaction.
Will Apple’s new design trend influence other tech companies? Absolutely! As industry leaders often set the design standards, Apple’s embrace of glassmorphism is likely to inspire others to explore similar aesthetics.
In conclusion, the excitement surrounding Apple’s design evolution is palpable. This glass-inspired visual language promises to elevate user experience while paying homage to the company’s rich history of aesthetic innovation. For more insights on tech trends, be sure to visit Moyens I/O.
