Google has introduced Motion Assist, a new accessibility option designed to help Android users scroll and use their phones in moving vehicles without triggering nausea. The feature, which brings Android in line with Apple’s Vehicle Motion Cues launched in 2024, uses on-device sensors to mitigate the sensory conflict that causes motion sickness.
Motion sickness occurs when there is a disconnect between what the eyes perceive and what the inner ear senses. While in a car, the vestibular system detects movement, but staring at a static screen tells the brain the body is stationary. This discrepancy often results in nausea. Google’s solution overlays small, colored shapes on the display that shift and move in real time based on the vehicle’s maneuvers, such as turns or stops. These visual cues remain anchored to the edges of the screen, ensuring they do not obstruct the content the user is reading or watching in the center.
The feature is currently available on devices running Android 17 or higher with updated Google Play Services. Pixel 11 models can access it immediately, while Samsung devices require One UI 9.
To enable the feature on Pixel phones, users should open the Settings app, select their profile, and navigate to All services. From the Personal & device safety menu, Motion Assist can be toggled on. Users can also opt to have the feature start automatically when the phone detects it is in a moving vehicle, though Google notes that sensor detection may not always be accurate. As an alternative, adding the toggle to the Quick Settings menu ensures easy access.
Google emphasizes that this feature is intended for passengers only and should not be used while driving. Additionally, users can customize the appearance of the motion cues by adjusting colors, opacity, and shapes through the Customize menu. A randomization setting is also available, which varies the colors and forms as the feature is used.
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