March 31, 2026, 1:25 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
Samsung introduces a new solution for travel sickness. The “Hearapy” app aims to stimulate the balance system with special tones and temporarily reduce motion sickness.
Those who suffer from motion sickness while traveling by car, train, or plane are familiar with the unpleasant symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and circulatory problems. Estimates suggest a significant portion of people are affected—depending on the study, significantly more than the often cited 5 to 10 percent.
Sound Instead of Pills
The Hearapy app takes an unusual approach: Instead of using medication or visual aids, it relies on acoustic signals. Specifically, a sine wave with a frequency of 100 hertz is played to stimulate the inner ear. The idea is based on research findings from Nagoya University in Japan. There, scientists discovered that such a tone—played at a volume of about 75 to 85 decibels for around one minute—can influence the balance system and temporarily alleviate symptoms of motion sickness. In initial tests under controlled conditions, this led to noticeable, albeit temporary, relief.
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Up to Two Hours of Effect
Samsung emphasizes that even a short exposure to the frequency is sufficient. According to the manufacturer and previous studies, listening to the tone for about 60 seconds could make one less susceptible to nausea for up to two hours. Due to the short duration, Samsung sees no health issues despite the high volume. The frequency, pitch, and duration of the tone in the Hearapy app are based on the Nagoya University study and take into account relevant noise protection regulations such as the EU Noise Directive or the OSHA program. “Accordingly, Samsung assumes that the 1-minute tone at the same volume is harmless to adult hearing,” the company told TECHBOOK.
For children, however, it should be noted that lower limits for noise exposure apply. Samsung generally recommends listening to the tone only at a volume perceived as comfortable by users. It is important that no other noises interfere with the sine tone. Additionally, the 100 Hz frequency must reach both ears for at least one minute before the start of the journey to achieve a possible effect.
Currently Only for Galaxy Buds 4 Pro
The function only works in conjunction with the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro. Currently, the headphones are available online for around 205 euros. The Hearapy app itself is free but only available for Android devices. It offers an integrated timer that automatically sets playback to 60 seconds and regulates the volume to about 85 decibels.
Currently, the Hearapy app is closely integrated into Samsung’s ecosystem. Whether it will be compatible with other headphones besides the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro in the future is not yet known. However, Samsung confirmed to us upon request that the app is generally available for all Android smartphones and tablets.