Google brings Motion Assist to Android to combat car sickness

First spotted in beta testing back in December 2024, the tool is finally arriving on devices running Android 17. Pixel phones are the initial recipients of the update, with a broader release for other Android hardware expected to follow. The system operates similarly to Apple's Vehicle Motion Cues, displaying animated dots or geometric shapes along the screen’s edges that shift in response to the car's trajectory. These visual references help reconcile the sensory conflict between what a passenger sees on their device and the motion their inner ear detects.

Users can access the feature via the Personal & device safety section within the Google Play settings menu. Customization options allow for adjustments to the color, shape, and opacity of the indicators, or a randomization setting for those who prefer variety. To streamline the experience, the software can trigger automatically upon detecting travel in a car, bus, or train, or be toggled manually via a dedicated tile in the Quick Settings panel. While currently reaching users in a gradual rollout, Google includes a persistent notification when the feature is active, offering a simple way to disable it at any time.