Gurman: Apple’s “liquid glass” look won’t see a major overhaul as iOS 27 readies foldable features

Lead: visual language stays, software adapts

It has been reported that Bloomberg’s Mark Gurman says Apple will keep its “liquid glass” visual language largely intact for iOS 27 and macOS 27 even as the company retools interfaces to support a rumored foldable iPhone. Will Apple reinvent the look of its operating systems for a new device shape? Reportedly not — the team is focused on adapting layouts rather than launching a wholesale visual redesign.

What’s changing for foldables

According to coverage in Ifeng (凤凰网) and IT Home (IT之家), Gurman’s Power On newsletter says iOS 27 will gain iPad-like interfaces when a foldable iPhone is opened: a persistent left-side navigation column, split-screen support for the first time on iPhone, and UI tweaks optimized for larger, wider screens. The changes are meant to make apps behave more like on iPad without bringing macOS-style desktop multitasking — Apple reportedly won’t port features such as Stage Manager (台前调度) to the phone.

Why this matters — and the wider context

For Western readers unfamiliar with China’s tech press: Chinese outlets are closely tracking Apple because the device supply chain and display manufacturing are deeply international, with many components and suppliers based in Asia. It has been reported that Apple is positioning the foldable iPhone to improve media and gaming experiences where larger, wider displays matter most. Geopolitics and export controls over advanced chips and display technology mean Apple’s device choices will have supply-chain implications, even if the visible design language — the so-called “liquid glass” — remains steady.