Apple Revamps Windows Vista Aero Glass with macOS 26 Liquid Glass Innovation

The WWDC 2025 conference at Apple Park in Cupertino has given us an array of exciting features, but one which notably piqued my interest is Apple’s newly unveiled design language: “Liquid Glass.” This innovation appears strikingly akin to Windows Vista’s Aero Glass, first introduced in 2006.

This observation isn’t born out of bias towards Windows; rather, a simple comparison of the early screenshots showcasing macOS 26 Liquid Glass reveals an unmistakable similarity. Anyone who’s navigated the aesthetics of both operating systems can attest to the foundational overlaps in design philosophy.

The allure of “glassy” and “translucent” effects was a hallmark of Vista and has been echoed in modern discussions around UI design. Naturally, macOS 26’s take is more refined, yet comparisons are pertinent, especially when considering the technological advancements of a 2025 system against the limitations of a 2006 OS.

Examining the Similarities Between macOS 26 and Windows Vista

To clarify, I’m not suggesting that Apple has directly copied Vista. However, it’s essential for users to recognize that the ethos behind “Liquid Glass”isn’t an entirely original idea; Microsoft had already explored similar concepts about 16 years prior.

In macOS 26, Apple presents “Liquid Glass”as a clear, hazy UI medium utilized across toolbars, sidebars, Control Center, and the Dock. Conversely, Vista’s innovative “Aero Glass” featured translucent windows, complemented by reflections and gentle gradients.

The comparisons are evident when we observe the transparent Dock and menu bar of macOS 26 alongside Vista’s taskbar and Start menu glass effects. Apple claims its use of soft tints and layered depth for folders and apps mirrors Vista’s approach towards color-based transparency.

macOS 26 window — macOS 26’s transparent or “liquid” dock

In a press release, Apple describes macOS 26 as “crafted with Liquid Glass, a translucent new material that reflects and refracts its surroundings.” It’s striking how closely this resonates with Microsoft’s earlier 2006 marketing language for Aero Glass.

For reference, I traversed the Wayback Machine and located this gem from Microsoft’s Vista blog post: “Windows Vista provides spectacular visual effects such as glass-like interface elements that you can see through.”

Windows Vista with Aero — Microsoft’s marketing material for Windows Aero

Reinstalling Windows Vista recently has reignited my appreciation for its aesthetic charm. It astonishes me that a design from 2006 still possesses such allure.

When you examine the screenshots, Vista seems remarkably ahead of its time. Unfortunately, like many ambitious technologies, it struggled to find favor among consumers—primarily due to its significant resource demands, which overwhelmed many contemporary machines.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the Liquid Glass design in macOS 26?

Liquid Glass is Apple’s latest design language introduced in macOS 26, characterized by transparent and blurry UI elements reminiscent of Windows Vista’s Aero Glass, enhancing the overall aesthetic and user experience.

2. How does Liquid Glass compare to Aero Glass?

While both designs share the theme of transparency and reflections, Liquid Glass refines some of the core concepts found in Aero Glass from Windows Vista by incorporating modern UI innovations and visual depth layering.

3. Did Apple copy Windows Vista’s design?

No, Apple has not copied Windows Vista. Instead, Liquid Glass draws inspiration from earlier design principles, showcasing how design ideas can evolve while retaining their foundational essence.

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