Disable Liquid Glass in macOS 26 (Tahoe)? Systemwide or per-app options
Apple’s macOS 26 “Tahoe” introduces the new “Liquid Glass” visual language: a glossy, more translucent look that affects windows, menus, controls and icons system‑wide. Many users like the refreshed aesthetics — others prefer a subtler, less glassy interface.
Can you disable Liquid Glass?
Short answer: No official systemwide or per‑app toggle exists to fully disable Liquid Glass as of macOS 26. Coverage from Apple and major Mac sites confirms the redesign is a core visual change in this release.
What you can try
- Reduce transparency: Go to System Settings > Accessibility > Display and enable Reduce Transparency. This can lessen translucent effects in parts of the UI but won’t fully revert Liquid Glass.
- Appearance & icon tweaks: Some appearance controls and icon style/tint options can be adjusted in System Settings. These tweak specific elements (icons, tints) but don’t remove the overall design language.
- Per‑app options: There’s currently no documented per‑app switch to disable Liquid Glass; macOS doesn’t expose a granular per‑app off switch for the new material.
Sources & further reading
If you’ve found a reliable workaround or want a more conservative look in Tahoe, share what you tried in the comments — I’ll update this post with confirmed tips and steps.