Apple’s latest iOS 26.1 Beta 4 introduced a new option to tone down Liquid Glass transparency, showing that even Apple isn’t afraid to rethink its boldest design ideas. While the tech giant is known for sticking to its principles, there have been several times it quietly backtracked after realizing users weren’t quite ready — or happy.
Here are six times Apple made a U-turn on its design choices.
The Return of Physical Function Keys (MacBook Pro 2021)
When Apple launched the Touch Bar in 2016, it was billed as the future of input. But professional users missed the tactile feel of real keys. In 2021, Apple listened — the MacBook Pro ditched the Touch Bar and brought back full-sized function keys. A humble yet powerful design correction.
The Comeback of the MagSafe Charger
Apple removed the beloved MagSafe port in 2016 in favor of USB-C. But fans never stopped asking for it. With the 2021 MacBook lineup, MagSafe made a glorious return — offering faster, safer, and more convenient charging once again.
The Keyboard That Clicked Back
The butterfly keyboard, introduced in 2015, was one of Apple’s biggest design misfires — shallow, unreliable, and frustrating to type on. After years of criticism and lawsuits, Apple finally returned to the Magic Keyboard design in 2020.
The iPhone Mini Experiment Ends
Apple tried to please compact phone lovers with the iPhone 12 mini and 13 mini — but low sales told another story. The company quietly dropped the model with the iPhone 14 series, marking a strategic retreat from its small-screen dream.
Flat Edges Make a Comeback
After years of curved designs, Apple revived the flat-edged frame with the iPhone 12 — echoing the iPhone 4’s iconic look. This time, it was a backtrack that paid off, blending nostalgia with modern design.
Liquid Glass Transparency Toggle (2025)
With iOS 26.1 Beta 4, Apple added an option to reduce the intensity of the new Liquid Glass interface effect. It’s a subtle acknowledgment that not everyone loves dramatic transparency — and Apple’s flexibility here shows it’s listening more closely to its users than ever before.
Apple’s design philosophy is often described as bold, minimalist, and forward-thinking. Yet, these moments prove that even Apple learns, adapts, and occasionally — humbly backtracks. And in the world of tech, that’s not weakness; it’s wisdom.