In the fourth iOS 16.1 beta, Apple introduced a "tinted" option aimed at reducing the translucency of the liquid glass interface. Curious if this setting could conserve battery life, the author tested various configurations using an iPhone 17 Pro Max.
Test Settings:
The author conducted four tests with different liquid glass settings:
- Clear
- Colored
- Tinted with “Reduce Transparency” and “Increase Contrast”
- Tinted with “Reduce Transparency,” “Increase Contrast,” and “Reduce Motion”
Each test maintained consistent conditions: brightness at 50%, light mode, notifications on, and no screen timeout. The tests involved a range of app usage for 2.5 hours creating a controlled environment.
Test Methodology:
The testing involved several activities, including scrolling through TikTok, watching YouTube, using Instagram, browsing Safari, and navigating Maps, with battery levels tracked at specific intervals. The initial battery was charged to 80% before each test.
Results:
Unexpectedly, activating “Reduce Transparency” and “Reduce Motion” did not lead to significant battery savings. Here’s how the battery performed during each test:
- Round 1 (Clear): 80% to 70%
- Round 2 (Colored): 80% to 69%
- Round 3 (Tinted, Reduce Transparency): 80% to 69%
- Round 4 (Tinted, Reduce Transparency, Reduce Motion): 80% to 70%
Overall, the variations were minimal, suggesting that the settings tested had little effect on battery consumption.
Observations:
Despite minor differences in battery usage across tests, the ineffectiveness of the liquid glass settings on battery life was highlighted. The author speculated that individual usage patterns and the type of apps could impact results differently, especially with apps that heavily utilize liquid glass effects.
Conclusion:
For users of iPhone 17 models, changes in liquid glass settings aren’t likely to significantly influence battery life. Other methods, like enabling low power mode, adaptive power, utilizing dark mode, and reducing screen brightness, appear to be more effective for conserving battery. The author invites feedback and further testing from readers to explore this topic.
