‘Beautiful’ and ‘Hard to Read’: Designers React to Apple’s Liquid Glass Update Analysis Report

5W1H Analysis

Who

Key individuals involved include software designers worldwide and Apple Inc. stakeholders. Designers are providing critical feedback, while Apple is the developer of the new Liquid Glass aesthetic.

What

Apple unveiled a new see-through aesthetic called Liquid Glass at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC) 2025. While the design has garnered praise for its beauty, concerns have arisen about the readability and user-friendliness of the interface.

When

The announcement was made during the WWDC, which took place in June 2025. The feedback from designers about the new aesthetic followed immediately after the event.

Where

The conference and announcement took place in Cupertino, California, influencing global markets where Apple products are used.

Why

Apple aims to innovate its product lines continuously, seeking to enhance user experience and maintain its competitive edge in the tech industry. The Liquid Glass design is part of Apple's strategy to modernise and differentiate its user interfaces.

How

Apple introduced the design through visual and interactive presentations at the WWDC. Feedback from designers has been collected through professional networks and media platforms, highlighting potential usability issues.

News Summary

At the WWDC 2025, Apple introduced a new Liquid Glass aesthetic, aimed at modernising its interface with a transparent look. However, software designers have expressed concerns about the potential impacts on readability. The new design has been applauded for its visual appeal but criticised for possibly compromising user accessibility.

6-Month Context Analysis

In the past six months, Apple has actively pushed design boundaries, as seen with previous updates focusing on sleek, minimalist aesthetics. The company appears committed to setting trends in interface design, yet faces recurring challenges regarding functionality versus aesthetic innovation. This tension between design and usability has been a consistent theme throughout their recent product development cycles.

Future Trend Analysis

The trend towards transparent and minimalist design interfaces is likely to continue as companies strive for innovative differentiation. Usability concerns suggest a growing need for balance between aesthetics and functionality.

12-Month Outlook

Over the next year, Apple is expected to refine the Liquid Glass design, possibly introducing user-centric enhancements to address readability issues.

Key Indicators to Monitor

- User feedback on readability from early adopters - Updates from Apple incorporating readability improvements - Market response and adoption rates for devices featuring the new interface

Scenario Analysis

Best Case Scenario

Apple successfully integrates readability enhancements while maintaining the aesthetic appeal, leading to positive user feedback and increased adoption across its product lines.

Most Likely Scenario

Apple addresses some readability concerns but may face ongoing criticism requiring iterative updates to the design.

Worst Case Scenario

Persistent readability issues lead to decreased user satisfaction and hindered adoption of devices integrating the new design.

Strategic Implications

Apple needs to monitor user feedback closely and respond swiftly to usability concerns. Collaborating with designers early in the development process may help balance aesthetics and functionality. Emphasising user-centred design could improve product adoption and brand reputation.

Key Takeaways

  • Apple's new Liquid Glass aesthetic is beautiful but has readability issues, highlighting a need for usability testing (Who: Apple, What: Liquid Glass).
  • Designers are critical stakeholders in providing valuable feedback for technological innovation (Who: Designers).
  • Future updates should address user accessibility concerns to maintain market success (What/Where: Apple's global markets).
  • Transparency and sleek design trends are popular but require careful user experience integration (What: Design Trends).
  • Monitoring user feedback and adaptability will be crucial for Apple's design success (Why/How: User Feedback and Design Adjustment).

Source: ‘Beautiful’ and ‘Hard to Read’: Designers React to Apple’s Liquid Glass Update