A hidden feature within a specific version of Google’s mobile operating system presents itself upon a series of deliberate user interactions. This interactive surprise, activated within Android 5.0, commonly known as Lollipop, takes the form of a simple game, often a variation of Flappy Bird featuring the Android robot mascot. Its activation involves navigating to the system settings, repeatedly tapping on the Android version entry, and then long-pressing on the Lollipop graphic that appears.
The inclusion of this concealed game served several purposes. Beyond offering a momentary diversion for users, it acted as a playful demonstration of the operating system’s capabilities and served as a distinctive marker of its release. The history of hiding such elements within software dates back decades, often as an inside joke amongst developers. These hidden elements, while not essential to the core functionality of the operating system, contribute to the overall user experience and create a sense of discovery and delight. It also provided a small element of personalization or custom branding within the software.