Technology
Google begins rolling out Motion Assist feature for Android to combat motion sickness
The new feature uses device sensors to display moving dots that match vehicle movement, mirroring a similar Apple capability.
The short version
- Google is introducing a new Android 17 feature called Motion Assist designed to reduce motion sickness for users looking at their phones in moving vehicles.
- The tool uses a phone's accelerometer and gyroscope to display animated dots that move in sync with the vehicle's physical motion.
- The feature is rolling out in phases, with select Pixel phones receiving it first.
Key facts
- Google's new Motion Assist feature is designed to address the sensory discrepancy between looking at a static screen and feeling a vehicle move.[The Verge]
- The tool utilizes the smartphone's built-in accelerometer and gyroscope to track motion.[The Verge]
- Motion Assist functions similarly to Apple's Motion Cues feature, which was launched in 2024.[The Verge]
- The Android 17 capability is being released in phases, starting with some Google Pixel devices.[The Verge]