Apple’s Icon Overhaul: A Small Change with Big Opinions
Did you know that even the tiniest design tweaks can spark heated debates among tech enthusiasts? Well, Apple’s latest move with the macOS 26.1 beta 3 is a perfect example. While the Apple TV icon grabbed headlines, it’s the revamped Macintosh HD icon that’s stealing the spotlight—and not everyone’s a fan. Remember the uproar over the macOS Tahoe hard drive icon earlier this year? Apple thought they’d settled the design, but surprise! A fresh iteration has just dropped, and it’s already stirring the pot.
But here’s where it gets controversial... macOS Tahoe 26 introduced the sleek Liquid Glass redesign and a modern icon set, aligning with iOS 26 and other Apple platforms. Among these updates, the classic Macintosh HD icon got a makeover to better reflect the solid-state drives (SSDs) found in today’s Macs. Sounds like a logical step, right? Not so fast. Mac users were quick to point out a few head-scratching details.
First, the perspective of the Apple logo and the drive’s angle seemed off—almost like they were designed in different universes. Second, the icon inexplicably featured a random port and holes, leaving many wondering, “What’s the point?” While the icon does resemble an external SSD more than the internal flash storage chips used in Macs, that’s a minor quibble for an icon. Still, it’s these small inconsistencies that can make or break user experience.
And this is the part most people miss... Apple appears to have listened to the feedback, as the new Macintosh HD icon in macOS 26.1 Tahoe (beta 3) shows subtle refinements. But is it an improvement, or just a sideways step? For comparison, the original macOS Tahoe 26.0 icon feels more grounded, while the new version leans into a futuristic vibe. Which one resonates with you?
Here’s the burning question: Does an icon’s accuracy matter if it’s visually appealing? Some argue that icons should be functional and realistic, while others believe they should prioritize aesthetics. Where do you stand? Let’s debate it in the comments—we want to hear your take!
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