You can make Pixel 4 Motion Sense work in restricted countries, but don't

It was only a matter of time before someone figured out how to activate Motion Sense on the Google Pixel 4 even in countries where the feature is disabled. That day has come, as a Redditor has discovered a fairly-straightforward root command that turns the feature on regardless of location.

As a refresher, Motion Sense is the exclusive Pixel 4 feature that uses radar to allow users to manipulate their device without physically touching it. Based on Google’s years-long venture known as Project Soli, the feature is little more than a gimmick at this point, but could eventually become something quite revolutionary (if Google lets it).

Since the feature uses actual radar — the same used by submarines and air traffic control towers — Google needs regulatory approval to turn the feature on around the world. Some countries gave Google that approval while others did not. In the countries where Google doesn’t have approval, Motion Sense simply doesn’t work on the Pixel 4. That is, unless you use this new hack.

Related: How Motion Sense works on the Pixel 4

While the hack is fairly simple to do — assuming you have a rooted Pixel 4 and understand how to use ADB commands — you probably should avoid it. The radar systems on the Pixel 4 are disabled in certain countries for a reason, so turning the feature on where it should remain off is likely a bad idea.

However, if you want to toy around with the feature a bit, you can follow the instructions in this Reddit thread. Again, use caution while doing this if you are living in a restricted area.