Google's New Wear OS Watches Hide Steph Curry Easter Egg

  google-s-new-wear-os-watches-hide-steph-curry-easter-egg.html
  Health and Fitness on Tue, Mar 31st, 2026 by CNET
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Mountain View, CA - April 1st, 2026 - Google's newest line of Wear OS smartwatches aren't just about fitness tracking and notifications; they harbor a playful secret. Eagle-eyed (and wrist-flexible) users have discovered a hidden video featuring NBA superstar Steph Curry, continuing Google's long-standing tradition of embedding Easter eggs within its products.

The discovery, initially reported by TechCrunch back in 2024, has resurfaced as more users receive and explore the latest generation of Wear OS devices. The video isn't accessible through traditional menus or settings. Instead, accessing it requires a specific, almost ritualistic, sequence of gestures: a triple wrist raise followed by two twists of the digital crown. This unconventional unlock method is clearly designed to add an element of discovery and fun for the user.

While seemingly frivolous, these Easter eggs are a key part of Google's brand identity. From the initial Android 'Easter egg' - a hidden game accessible through repeatedly tapping the Android version number in the 'About phone' menu - to more recent subtle nods within Google Assistant and other apps, the company consistently demonstrates a commitment to injecting moments of levity and surprise into the user experience. This is a deliberate strategy to foster a more positive and engaging relationship with its users.

Steph Curry's inclusion is particularly apt. The NBA star has been a brand ambassador for Google for several years, prominently featuring in commercials promoting Google Assistant. His energetic personality and widespread appeal make him a natural fit for a lighthearted Easter egg. Interestingly, the length and content of the hidden video have become a subject of discussion amongst online communities. Early reports suggested a short clip, but recent user experiences indicate variations - some users are reporting slightly extended versions with behind-the-scenes footage from the Google Assistant commercials.

The Evolution of Google Easter Eggs

Google's history with Easter eggs dates back to the very beginnings of Android. The first official Easter egg was a simple, hidden game within the Android 1.1 operating system. Each subsequent version of Android introduced a new, more elaborate Easter egg, often themed around the version's codename (e.g., 'Honeycomb' featured a beehive game, 'KitKat' partnered with Nestle for a sweet treat). This tradition evolved beyond just the operating system, extending into other Google products like Chrome, Maps, and even Search.

Experts suggest these seemingly minor features serve several purposes. Firstly, they act as a 'reward' for curious users who take the time to explore and interact with the product beyond its core functionality. Secondly, they provide a positive talking point and generate media buzz - as evidenced by the renewed interest in the Steph Curry video two years after its initial discovery. Finally, they humanize the tech giant, showcasing a playful side often absent in the corporate world.

Wear OS and the Competitive Smartwatch Market

The inclusion of this Easter egg comes at a crucial time for Google's Wear OS platform. The smartwatch market is increasingly competitive, with Apple dominating the high-end segment and Samsung providing strong competition. Google has been steadily improving Wear OS, focusing on battery life, app compatibility, and overall user experience. Features like this hidden video, while not directly impacting performance, contribute to the platform's perceived value and differentiate it from the competition.

Analysts believe Google is focusing on building a loyal Wear OS community, and Easter eggs like the Steph Curry video are a subtle but effective way to achieve this. By fostering a sense of fun and discovery, Google hopes to encourage users to stick with Wear OS and recommend it to others. The company is also rumored to be working on even more interactive and customizable features for future Wear OS updates, potentially including user-created Easter eggs.

For those eager to unlock the hidden video, remember the sequence: three wrist raises followed by two digital crown twists. Happy hunting!