Do you get dizzy using your phone while traveling? This OS feature could solve the problem

For those who suffer from dizziness or nausea when looking at their phones during a journey, a new feature in Android 17 could prove useful. Google is gradually rolling out this feature.

Using a phone while traveling in a moving car or bus isn’t easy for everyone. Many people experience dizziness, nausea, or discomfort after looking at the screen for a while. Addressing this issue, Google is gradually rolling out a feature called “Motion Assist” in Android 17. This feature displays moving dots along the edges of the phone screen that shift position in sync with the vehicle’s movement. The goal is to show the eyes the same movement that the body is physically experiencing. Let’s take a closer look at what Android 17’s Motion Assist is and how it helps alleviate this problem.

What is Android 17’s Motion Assist?

Motion Assist is specifically designed to reduce motion sickness caused by using a phone while traveling. Google is launching this feature on Pixel phones first, with a gradual rollout. While some Pixel users have already received it, it is not yet available on all phones running Android 17. The concept behind this feature isn’t entirely new; Apple has been offering a similar feature called “Motion Cues” since 2024. Tests have shown that using it helps reduce—and in some cases, eliminate—nausea associated with looking at the screen.

How does this feature solve the problem?

Motion Assist utilizes the phone’s accelerometer and gyroscope. These sensors detect the phone’s movement and changes in direction. Consequently, the dots displayed on the screen’s edges move in sync with that motion. For instance, if the vehicle turns to the right, the dots might appear to move to the left. When the vehicle brakes, the dots shift forward. The aim is to provide the eyes with visual movement that aligns with the signals received by the inner ear. Minimizing this discrepancy can help reduce travel-related discomfort.

Motion Assist Features

1. To use Motion Assist, first go to the Google Play settings on your phone.
2. Next, tap on your profile section; here, you will find options for all available services.
3. In this section, you will find features related to security and the device. Now, tap on the Motion Assist option.
4. It includes an option that allows the feature to activate automatically upon detecting that the phone is in a moving vehicle.
5. Additionally, you can add the Motion Assist tile to Quick Settings to manually turn it on or off as needed.
6. Users can also customize the color, shape, and opacity of the dots displayed on the screen. A randomization option can automatically adjust these settings. The phone also displays a notification while the feature is active.

Which users are getting this feature?

The rollout of Motion Assist is currently limited. According to Android Authority, the feature is visible on some Pixel devices, while it remains unavailable on other Pixel phones—even those running Android 17. The company has not released a specific rollout schedule for all devices.