Apple has a little-known iPhone setting designed to help reduce motion sickness for passengers in cars, trains, or planes. The feature, called Vehicle Motion Cues, displays animated dots on the screen that move in sync with the vehicle's motion, aiming to bridge the sensory mismatch that causes queasiness.
To activate it, users go to Settings > Accessibility > Motion and select 'Show Vehicle Motion Cues', choosing either 'On' or 'Automatic'. Once enabled, small dots appear at the edges of the screen, providing visual feedback that helps the brain reconcile what the eyes see with what the body feels.
According to MedlinePlus, about one in three people are highly prone to motion sickness, though nearly anyone can experience it under intense conditions. Symptoms include dizziness, sweating, nausea, and vomiting, often triggered by travel, theme park rides, or virtual reality.
In a TikTok video, consumer group Which? demonstrated the feature, noting that it 'helps your brain match what it sees to what it feels'. User reactions have been mixed but largely positive, with one calling it a 'game changer' and another saying it 'helps' their daughter. However, some remain sceptical, with one user commenting it 'buys time' before needing to put the phone down.
Apple advises that the feature should not be used while driving and works best when passengers face forward. Users can also set up a shortcut to toggle it on or off quickly. While not a complete remedy, it offers a practical tool for those prone to travel sickness.
