Why should easter eggs be considered in AI design?

People don’t just use tools to get things done; they remember how those tools made them feel. The most lasting experiences often come from small, thoughtful details that feel unexpectedly human. These are the touches that add warmth to an otherwise functional interaction.

When designed with care, moments of delight can bring life to repetitive tasks. They make digital experiences feel less mechanical and more personal, which can quietly elevate a product. And, these are the things people tend to talk about.

Examples

On Apple devices, video calls now recognize hand gestures like peace signs or a thumbs-up. When detected, the system responds with animations like confetti or fireworks, adding a bit of joy without any taps or commands. These gestures feel more like discoveries than features, making conversations more expressive.

YouTube takes a subtler approach. When a creator says “like” or “subscribe,” the interface gently highlights those buttons in sync. Users don’t think of it as AI. They simply notice the moment feels well-timed and intuitive, guiding them without interruption.

Samsung’s "Moon mode" shows another angle. When a user points their camera at the moon, the AI steps in to enhance clarity and detail, making it feel like a professional shot; no extra settings required. The technical work fades into the background, leaving just the moment.

Easter eggs is also a delicate design choice. Easter eggs remind us to pause and smile in a world chasing speed and scale. But overusing it, especially in task-based or focus software, risks turning surprise into noise. Contextual balance is needed to win.