Google Chrome on iOS 26 Adopts Liquid Glass Design: What's New in Version 141

With the release of iOS 26, Apple introduced the "Liquid Glass" design language, bringing a translucent, glass-like aesthetic to its user interfaces. Google Chrome has become the first Google app to adopt this new design, offering iPhone and iPad users a visually refreshed browsing experience.

Key Features of Chrome 141 on iOS 26

Refined Tab Grid Interface

The tab grid in Chrome 141 has been redesigned to align with the Liquid Glass aesthetic. Elements such as the Incognito mode button, tab switcher, tab group controls, and the search function on the left have all been restyled. Additionally, the "Edit" and "Done" buttons below now match this treatment, providing a cohesive and modern look. 

Overhauled Context Menus

Context menus in Chrome have shifted from the previous blurred background look to a cleaner, more modern appearance. This change enhances readability and aligns with the overall design philosophy of iOS 26. 

Redesigned Bottom Sheet Menu

The bottom sheet menu in Chrome now features softer, rounded corners, moving away from the edge-to-edge design. Menu items adopt the same curved design, contributing to a more refined and user-friendly interface.

Updated Keyboard and Shortcuts

iOS 26 introduces a new keyboard design with more rounded keys and panels. Chrome continues to provide an extra shortcut row above the keyboard, offering access to voice search, Google Lens, and quick keys such as ".com" and the slash key. However, this row now appears as a floating rectangle instead of being attached to the main keyboard, enhancing accessibility and usability.

Chrome's Unique Position Among Google Apps

Chrome's swift adoption of the Liquid Glass design is notable, as it is the first Google app on iOS to implement this aesthetic. This quick update appears tied to Chrome's custom interface, while for most apps, recompiling with the latest SDK may only bring support for the new iOS keyboard.

Currently, Google’s iOS apps continue to mix two design languages: Material Theme in Keep, Calendar, and Tasks, and Material 3 in Gmail, Chat, Home, Maps, Meet, Photos, and Search, leaving the older style looking somewhat dated. 

User Experience Enhancements

The integration of the Liquid Glass design language in Chrome aims to provide a more immersive and visually appealing browsing experience. The translucent elements and dynamic animations contribute to a modern and cohesive interface that aligns with the overall aesthetic of iOS 26.

Conclusion

Google Chrome’s adoption of the Liquid Glass design in iOS 26 represents a major step forward in aligning the app with Apple’s modern visual language, offering users a more immersive and aesthetically pleasing interface.

The refreshed design introduces softer edges, rounded menus, and redesigned UI elements across the browser, creating a cohesive look that complements iOS 26’s overall aesthetic. Features such as the updated Tab Grid, bottom sheet menu, and context menus have been carefully refined to enhance usability while maintaining a visually clean and modern experience.

Additionally, the new tab-loading indicator, redesigned keyboard shortcuts, and floating shortcut row improve functionality and accessibility, making browsing more intuitive. By integrating these design updates, Google Chrome not only elevates the visual appeal of its iOS app but also strengthens its position as a user-centric browser.

This update reflects Google’s commitment to innovation, ensuring iPhone and iPad users enjoy a seamless, contemporary, and engaging browsing experience.