Apple iOS 26 Faces Backlash Over Dark Mode and ‘Tilted Icons’ Bug

Apple’s much-anticipated iOS 26 update is facing criticism from users just weeks after its release. The update, which introduced the new Liquid Glass UI, has drawn complaints ranging from battery drainage and performance issues to legibility problems.

iOS 26 Dark Mode Bug

Now, a fresh wave of criticism is emerging over how Dark Mode interacts with the Liquid Glass icons, with many users saying the effect makes the app icons appear “tilted” or “skewed.”

🌙 Dark Mode Bug Creates ‘Tilted’ Icons

The Liquid Glass design adds a subtle glow on the top-left and bottom-right corners of app icons, mimicking reflections on real glass. While striking in theory, users report that in Dark Mode — especially with dark wallpapers — the icons appear off-balance or slanted.

On Reddit, frustrated iPhone owners have described the experience as “disorienting,” “drunk-like,” and even “vertigo-inducing.” Others report eye strain and motion sickness after prolonged use.

🛠️ Temporary Fixes for Users

Until Apple issues a patch, users have suggested a few workarounds:

• Switch to brighter or colorful wallpapers to mask the tilted effect.

• Disable Dark Mode entirely to avoid the skewed icon visuals.

• Adjust Accessibility Settings:

  • Go to Settings → Accessibility → Display & Text Size → Reduce Transparency.

  • Enable Reduce Motion to soften animations that worsen the effect.

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These fixes won’t fully resolve the issue but may reduce its intensity.

📱 iOS 26 Eligible Devices

The iOS 26 update is available on the following iPhone models:

• iPhone 17 series

• iPhone 16e, 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max

• iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max

• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max

• iPhone 13, 13 mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max

• iPhone 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max

• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max

• iPhone SE (2nd generation and later)

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⏳ What’s Next?

Apple has not yet commented on the tilted icons bug. Users expect the company to address the issue in an upcoming iOS 26.1 update, given the volume of complaints surfacing online.

For now, iPhone owners may have to choose between style and comfort — enjoying the glossy new UI or avoiding motion sickness by switching back to lighter themes.