Louie Mantia has provided an insightful critique of the Liquid Glass design approach, highlighting several shortcomings in this UI update. One major observation is the merging of title bars into toolbars, making them nearly indistinguishable. This change raises concerns about user interface clarity; many users might be unsure where it’s appropriate to drag windows.
Additionally, the adaptation of icons to fit the Liquid Glass model often compromises their intended function and clarity. Mantia points out that the UI design choices suggest a misunderstanding of the distinctions between various elements. For example, the sharp edges of some controls clash with Apple’s advancements in HDR brightness, leading to a jarring experience.
Users are left questioning the purpose of these changes, as they often seem to solve problems that don’t exist. The critique emphasizes that design features, such as a large pause button appearing prominently during video playback, detract from the overall user experience. Previously, UI elements were visually distinct from content, which allowed users to focus on what mattered most—the media itself.
The current design merges these two aspects, creating confusion rather than clarity. Mantia concludes that the reliance on visual effects should serve to differentiate UI elements, not invalidate them. When one has to blur the content area to make the UI noticeable, it raises the question of whether the design is effective at all.
The shift in design philosophy reflects not just a matter of taste, but poor judgment and a lack of cohesion in the design strategy. The overall implication is clear: these decisions result in bad design that fails to prioritize user experience.