Google has begun rolling out Motion Assist to select Pixel and Samsung smartphones running Android 17, aiming to reduce motion sickness during travel. The feature uses onscreen bubbles that shift in response to vehicle movement, helping align visual cues with physical motion. Users can activate it by searching „motion assist” in the Settings app or accessing it through Quick Settings. The rollout follows an announcement made earlier this month, marking Google’s latest effort to integrate wellness-focused tools into mobile operating systems.
Motion Assist functions by displaying subtle animated bubbles that move counter to the device’s detected motion, creating a visual reference point that may help mitigate sensory conflict. This conflict—where the eyes see a stationary screen while the body senses movement—is a known trigger for nausea in cars, buses, or trains. By adjusting the bubble flow in real time, the feature attempts to reconcile these conflicting signals without requiring users to look away from their screens. The tool is designed to be non-intrusive, operating in the background once enabled, and does not interfere with standard app usage or notifications.
While Motion Assist shows promise for reducing discomfort during short commutes or longer trips, its effectiveness may vary depending on individual susceptibility to motion sickness and the nature of the journey. Google has not released specific efficacy data or user trial results at this stage, noting that the feature is being introduced gradually to gather real-world feedback. The company emphasizes that Motion Assist is not a medical solution but a supportive tool intended to improve comfort for users who experience mild to moderate symptoms. It remains optional and can be toggled off at any time via Settings.
How do I turn on Motion Assist on my Pixel or Samsung phone? Open the Settings app, search for „motion assist,” and toggle the feature on. You can also access it quickly through Quick Settings by editing the tile panel and adding the Motion Assist shortcut.
Does Motion Assist work in all vehicles or only specific types of transport? The feature is designed to function in any moving vehicle where motion is detected by the phone’s sensors, including cars, buses, trains, and similar modes of transport. It relies on accelerometer and gyroscope data to adjust the bubble animation accordingly.
Is Motion Assist available on all Android 17 devices or only Pixel and Samsung models? Currently, the rollout is limited to Pixel and Samsung smartphones that have been updated to Android 17. Google has not confirmed whether other manufacturers will receive the feature in future updates.