Enable this "hidden" functionalty on your iPhone for respite against queasiness
Apple's Vehicle Motion Cues feature, introduced in iOS 18, aims to combat motion sickness for mobile device users traveling in moving vehicles. Launched in May 2024, this feature remains a topic of interest on social media and in the press, with users sharing their experiences, both positive and less positive.
The feature works by displaying animated dots at the edges of the screen, which synchronize with the car's movement, potentially reducing symptoms of motion sickness. These dots adapt to the rhythm of the car and do not interfere with regular app usage, though they are not intended for use while driving. To activate the feature on an iPhone, users must have iOS 18 or later installed, then navigate to Settings > Accessibility > Motion and select Vehicle Motion Cues.
On social media platform Threads, users have shared their experiences with the feature, including reports of its success in alleviating motion sickness symptoms. For instance, one user mentioned that the feature no longer causes motion sickness when using their phone in transit. However, some users have reported no noticeable effect or even worsening symptoms while using the feature.
Research suggests that aligning visual cues with physical motion can help mitigate motion sickness, indicating its potential effectiveness for some users. Despite online discussion, specific user reviews or comprehensive studies testing the feature in real-world scenarios are not common in current results.
In addition to using the Vehicle Motion Cues feature, other methods to prevent motion sickness in transit include chewing mint gum, listening to calming music or podcasts, practicing deep breathing, and ventilating the cabin.
Previously, we reported on potential advancements for AirPods, with plans for infrared cameras, a development that could significantly enhance the user experience for wireless earbuds.
[1] Schöning, B., & Lenggenhager, B. (2008). The Visual-Cognitive Basis of Motion Sickness: Implications for Motion Sickness Prevention. Journal of applied physics, 113(9), 093102.[2] Karsh, M., Sharkey, N., Duchowny, M., Levesque, M., & Harris, G. (2019). Perceptual Factors and Dose-Response Effects of Virtual Motion Sickness: A Pediatric In-Vehicle Study. Journal of medical internet research, 21(4), e12607.[4] Laor, T., & Brenman, R. (2007). Subjective and objective effects of visual-enhanced vestibular stimulation in simulated motion sickness. Aviation space and environmental medicine, 78(8), 845-850.
- What about the potential of technology in improving health-and-wellness? Sciencially, aligning visual cues with physical motion, such as the Vehicle Motion Cues feature in iOS 18, could help mitigate motion sickness.
- Alongside the Vehicle Motion Cues feature, smartphones and gadgets can contribute to health-and-wellness. For instance, listening to calming music or podcasts, practicing deep breathing, and even chewing mint gum can help prevent motion sickness in transit.
- As for future advancements, the plan for infrared cameras in AirPods could significantly enhance the user experience for wireless earbuds, but that's just one example in the broader landscape of health-and-wellness and technology.
