Apple has recently introduced a groundbreaking redesign known as Liquid Glass across its entire suite of products. This update is not only visually striking but also enhances the functionality of devices, with iOS 26 and macOS Tahoe 26 featuring innovative layers of digital glass that manipulate light in unique ways. However, it’s important to acknowledge that similar concepts have been explored by other tech companies, sparking a debate about originality in design.
Comparative Analysis: Apple’s Liquid Glass UI vs. Competitors
Samsung has a long history of critiquing Apple’s design choices, and the launch of iOS 26 was no exception. Apple’s latest UI design language, dubbed “Liquid Glass, ”has drawn comparisons with Google’s recently unveiled Material 3 Expressive design for Android 16, both of which employ a glass-centric aesthetic. Samsung seized the opportunity to highlight these similarities in a humorous manner on social media.
In a pointed reference to Apple’s “sleek glass UI, ”Samsung promoted its One UI 7 redesign, suggesting that while the underlying mechanics might differ, the visual presentation appears strikingly similar.
Customizable apps? Floating bars? That sleek glass UI? Looks… familiar 🤔
— Samsung Mobile US (@SamsungMobileUS) June 9, 2025
Moreover, Samsung pointed out that some of the features touted in iOS 26, such as live translations across various applications, had already been integrated into their Galaxy S24 lineup. Interestingly, Samsung has argued that it has consistently utilized AI technology in its Galaxy Watch models, contrasting this with Apple’s recent AI feature additions, including those found in the Apple Watch.
New to live translations? Welcome aboard! We’ve been translating text and speech in real-time for a while now… #GalaxyAI
— Samsung Mobile US (@SamsungMobileUS) June 9, 2025
AI is coming to your watch? Cute. Ours already knows when you’re too tired to care 😴 #GalaxyAI
— Samsung Mobile US (@SamsungMobileUS) June 9, 2025
Despite the competitive banter, Apple’s approach to UI design and AI integration remains distinct, even if it is inspired by earlier implementations by other brands. Additionally, macOS Tahoe 26 has faced scrutiny for its resemblances to Windows Vista’s Aero Glass design, further fueling discussions on design originality.
According to Windows Latest, both macOS Tahoe 26 and Windows Vista showcase similarities that extend beyond aesthetics. Apple has described Tahoe’s interface as being constructed with “Liquid Glass, ” a transparent material that interacts dynamically with its environment. Conversely, Microsoft’s description of Vista’s Aero Glass highlights similar visual effects, emphasizing its glass-like user interface components.
Furthermore, macOS Tahoe incorporates layered color tints and depth effects for its applications, echoing the transparency effects seen in Vista. For those interested in a deeper dive, further details on the design aspects of these software updates can be found in the accompanying articles.
Ultimately, the debate over design innovation highlights that aesthetic appeal doesn’t necessarily correlate with being the first to introduce a concept. What truly matters is how users perceive and interact with the technology. What are your thoughts on Apple’s new Liquid Glass design? We invite you to share your opinions in the comments below.
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