This Optical Illusion Reveals a Hidden Number – and Everyone Sees It Differently | March 29, 2025

Imagine a gray and black striped circle, an image that at first glance seems innocuous. However, it hides a mystery that fascinates a large part of Internet users: a number is hidden in this circle, but only a trained eye can detect it. This phenomenon is not just a simple entertainment: it is a real test of your sensitivity to contrast. But why can such a simple image pose so many difficulties?
A disturbing visual experience

At first glance, you might think that just staring at the image will reveal its secrets. However, as soon as you look closely, one detail becomes intriguing: the perception of the number varies from one person to another. Some only see a fragment, while others guess several numbers without identifying them all. One intrigued Internet user even confided:
“I see 528 with my glasses, but other numbers appear when I take them off!”

 

There’s a reason for the confusion: the illusion taps into a key visual skill called contrast sensitivity. In simple terms, it’s our ability to distinguish objects from their backgrounds, especially in difficult conditions like fog or low light. Not so trivial, right?