Android

Google preparing ‘Motion Cues’ feature for Android that combats motion sickness

Andrew Romero | Dec 11 2024 - 5:18 am PT

Google has been working on a feature to combat motion sickness when users interact with their devices in moving vehicles. The “Motion Cues” feature has yet to be released on Android but was activated prior to release.

Motion sickness is common for users, so much so that Apple has already implemented its own motion sickness deterrent in iOS 18, called Vehicle Motion Cues. While it can’t completely prevent users from feeling queasy while riding in a car or other transport, it certainly helps and can make sending or reading a few emails a lot easier.

Google seems to be working on a similar feature for Android (via Android Authority). The Motion cues feature was activated in an APK dissection, meaning the feature has not been released, and there’s truly no telling if it will be. This is something Google is clearly testing in a closed environment.

Android Authority was able to activate Motion Cues via the Google Play Store beta (v24.29.32). In doing so, a new toggle appears in settings under the name “Motion Cues.” Once activated, the feature adds around 14 pairs of small dots to the screen. The dots will move with the motion of the phone, grounding the user with a reference to the movement of the vehicle.

The tool also has an automatic toggle when Android detects that the user is in a vehicle, though the setting is labeled “Auto-enable when Driving.” That in itself is a sign that the feature isn’t ready for primetime, considering drivers would not be encouraged to use their device enough to get motion sickness while operating a vehicle.

Motion Cues in Android does need to ask for permission to display over other apps. In its working state, those little moving dots will appear everywhere and should quell feelings of motion sickness in some form.

Again, it does not appear this feature is ready, though more signs of it are popping up. There is no telling when the feature could come to Android, though it’s a welcome one.