Google Rolls Out Motion Assist in Android 17 to Combat Travel-Related Discomfort

Google has introduced Motion Assist in Android 17, a feature designed to combat download delays and motion sickness while traveling. The technology displays moving geometric shapes along the edges of the screen to reduce discomfort.

The new feature is available on devices running Android 17, including the Galaxy Fold 8 and Pixel 11 lineup. Google officially unveiled Motion Assist on September 1, noting that it was designed to bridge the gap between what the eyes perceive and the actual movements of the vehicle.

According to Eric Kay, vice president of Android Core platform engineering at Google, the tool is intended to make commutes easier for users. However, he also acknowledged that its effectiveness may vary among users, with a small percentage potentially experiencing discomfort.

Motion Assist can be activated by opening the 'Settings' app and searching for 'motion assist.' It will automatically display moving objects when the smartphone detects that you're in a car, bus, or train. Users can adjust the color, transparency, shape, and level of randomness of the figures.