How does Motion Assist work in Android 17?

The feature displays moving dots on the screen, synchronized with vehicle motion, to reduce motion sickness. Users can customize shape, color, and transparency, and enable it automatically during travel.

Which devices support the new Android features?

Most updates are available on Android 16+ devices, while Motion Assist requires Android 17. Guided Vision is supported from Android 9 onwards.

How do I use shared notes in Google Messages?

In a Google Messages chat, users can add a Google Keep note and edit it collaboratively with contacts without switching apps.

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Google Unveils 17 New Android Features: From Motion Sickness Relief to Shared Chat Notes

September 1, 2026

Photo: CNET

Quick answer

Google announced Android 17 with Motion Assist to reduce motion sickness, shared chat notes in Google Messages, and Guided Vision for real-time object recognition.

Google has rolled out a practical Android update focused on utility rather than flashy AI features. Key additions include a motion sickness tool, shared note-taking in chats, and a new camera-based object recognition mode.

The new Motion Assist feature displays dynamic dots on the screen, synchronized with vehicle movement. This solution, similar to Apple’s Vehicle Motion Cues, reduces the conflict between visual perception and physical sensations, helping users stay productive during travel. Users can customize the shape, color, and transparency of the displayed elements and enable the feature automatically when moving.

Another update enhances collaboration in Google Messages. Chat participants can now add and edit Google Keep notes directly within conversations, simplifying group trip planning or list creation. Additionally, users can customize chat themes with background images or colors that adapt to text messages.

The new Guided Vision mode, accessible via the camera and AI-powered Gemini Live, enables real-time object recognition. This feature is useful for reading small text on packages, navigating menus in dimly lit venues, or locating items at home. Special attention is given to accessibility, as the tool assists visually impaired users with voice prompts to adjust camera angles.

Updates are gradually rolling out to devices running Android 16 and above, with Motion Assist and Guided Vision requiring Android 17. Some features, including Guided Vision, will launch later in regions where Gemini is available.

Common questions

How does Motion Assist work in Android 17?: The feature displays moving dots on the screen, synchronized with vehicle motion, to reduce motion sickness. Users can customize shape, color, and transparency, and enable it automatically during travel.
Which devices support the new Android features?: Most updates are available on Android 16+ devices, while Motion Assist requires Android 17. Guided Vision is supported from Android 9 onwards.
How do I use shared notes in Google Messages?: In a Google Messages chat, users can add a Google Keep note and edit it collaboratively with contacts without switching apps.

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