Android 17 moves in the direction of iOS 18, but I'm all for it since I'm getting this cool feature

Android or iOS? This is one of those questions that will never have a definitive answer, yet it's been answered by billions of people with their phones of choice.

Soon, we'll all be getting Android 17 and iOS 27 in their stable releases (for eligible devices). The next version of Google's mobile operating system could arrive with something that could be a game changer for you.

Say, do you get sick while looking at your phone when you're traveling with a car or a bus?

Android 17 and its Motion Assist feature

Right now, only a handful of devices—like the new Pixel 11 family—operate with Android 17 on board. In this version, there's a feature called Motion Assist and it's, well, about assisting you with motion sickness. Some people really don't care whether they're looking at their phone or through the window and enjoying the landscape.

But some people have no choice and are only left with the second option, as reading or watching their phone causes dizziness or nausea.

Motion sickness sounds funny only if you haven't experienced it and it's about time that Google made something about it.

All OS things by Google:

• Google tests useful UI change on the YouTube for Android app
• Google silently added a new app to millions of Android phones, and users are confused
• Pixel 6 to Pixel 11 phones could finally get back Now Playing's best feature Google took away

Which phones are getting it?

Per the latest reports, Google starts with its own Pixel phones. Some users say their Pixel 11 Pro XL units have the Motion Assist already on board, but owners of the Pixel 10 Pro XL—which has also received Android 17—haven't received the new feature yet.

That's not unusual. New features are almost always being rolled out in phases.

If you're a fan of exotic brands like Oppo or Vivo, you know that these OEMs have Motion Cues and it does pretty much the same thing as Motion Assist—there are several interactive elements on the screen that react to the phone's movement and minimize your motion sickness feelings.

Apple also has its own take on it. In iOS 18, Cupertino introduced Vehicle Motion Cues. It's the same: animated dots appear on the edges of the screen to represent changes in vehicle motion.

How to access it?

The new Motion Assist feature should be located in Google Play Settings. Users should look for it in Settings > Your profile > All services > Personal & device safety section. Then select Motion Assist.

Once enabled, the Motion Assist feature should start automatically when your Android 17 device detects that you're in a moving vehicle and using the phone.

What I, personally, find of great help is that there's a Motion Assist Quick Settings icon. This way, you can turn the feature on or off in no time and there's no need to dig in Settings.

Customization is paramount

I love features that are customizable and Motion Assist seems to be one of these. Once we get it, we'll be able to pick the shape, color and opacity of the small elements that'd appear on the screen. There's also a Randomization option available.

How come this works?

It's about perception. Motion Assist works by giving your brain visual cues that match the movement your body is feeling. The animated elements on the edges of the screen move with you, helping your eyes and inner ear receive more consistent signals and reducing the mismatch that causes motion sickness.

It's a pretty clever idea.

Six-month unlimited plan is now 57% off

$90

$210

$120 off (57%)

Mint Mobile is now allowing you to get whichever plan you like for either three, six, or 12 months for just $15/mo. If you go for the six-month unlimited service, for instance, you'll now have to pay just $90 upfront instead of $210.

Buy at Mint Mobile