Bold changes often leave us questioning and debating — and Apple’s latest icons certainly fall into this category. The company's shift towards a sleek, liquid glass-inspired design language has sparked one of the most heated discussions in recent UI development, rivaling even the infamous switch from skeuomorphism to flat design back in 2013. But here's where it gets controversial: while many applaud the fresh aesthetic and the broader move towards minimalism, certain icons, like the one for Font Book, have irked many professional designers.
Apple’s new approach has introduced a radical overhaul across all its software platforms, including macOS and iOS. This liquid glass style emphasizes transparency, smooth gradients, and a polished look, aiming to create a more modern and cohesive visual experience. However, these aesthetic choices aren’t without their critics, especially when it comes to usability and clarity. And this is the part most people miss — some design updates, no matter how beautiful, can compromise functionality and immediacy.
Specifically, the Font Book icon has undergone a dramatic simplification. Previously, it displayed stylized letters such as a prominent 'A' alongside a lowercase 'a', clearly indicating its purpose: managing fonts with recognizable symbols. Now, the icon showcases a single, plain sans-serif 'a,' sparking widespread disappointment among graphic designers and users alike. Many argue that the new icon does little to convey the app’s function: font management and selection. As one Reddit user lamented, “I understand the modern design trend, but I’d prefer to see ‘Aa’ instead of just ‘a’ — it’s more intuitive.” Others echoed this sentiment, calling it an unfortunate downgrade in clarity.
On social media, the reactions were quick and varied. For example, a tweet from November 7, 2025, humorously pointed out, “No one told me Font Book just got the icon downgrade of the century.” Despite the criticism, some appreciated the minimalistic approach, suggesting that cleaner, simplified icons can be visually appealing. One user commented, “While the old icon better communicated what the app does, I do find the new one more aesthetically pleasing. Both styles have their merits, frankly.”
From our perspective, the new design isn’t necessarily a step backward. It aligns well with Apple’s broader 'Liquid Glass' aesthetic, emphasizing sleekness and simplicity. But it’s also worth noting that Apple has long been celebrated for its fun, colorful, and distinctive visual identity — qualities that feel somewhat diminished with the move towards fewer cues and more subdued icons. The nostalgic, vibrant Apple of the early 2000s feels increasingly distant, and some would argue that this latest change further strips away that playful character.
In the end, design often balances form and function, and not everyone will agree on the best approach. The question remains: should aesthetics outweigh clarity, or is there a middle ground? How do you feel about these redesigns? Do you think Apple’s move toward minimalism sacrifices usability for beauty? Share your thoughts below — it’s a debate worth having.
