Apple TV adds spatial audio for F1

Apple has officially enabled Dolby Atmos audio for its Formula 1 broadcasts, with the rollout beginning immediately for this weekend’s United States Grand Prix. The technology upgrade allows viewers in the United States to hear the race with enhanced spatial sound. This marks the first time any Formula 1 event has been aired using this specific audio format.

The partnership between Apple and Dolby Laboratories was made public earlier this month. Both companies stated that the new audio support would launch alongside the Grand Prix weekend. The United States Grand Prix serves as the debut event for this immersive sound experience on the platform.

Apple explains that the surrounding sound design aims to place viewers directly within the environment of race weekend. The audio mix captures elements such as team radio communications, driver commentary, and the high-decibel roar of engines. It also highlights the intensity of on-track battles and the activity in the pit lane. The company notes that combining this sound with Dolby Vision’s visual clarity creates a premium viewing package that puts fans at the center of the action.

The weekend schedule is already underway, with the first practice session having concluded. Subscribers still have opportunities to watch the remaining key events. The second practice session is scheduled for today, October 23, at 5 p.m. Eastern Time. Saturday, October 24, will see the third practice session begin at 1:30 p.m. ET, followed by the qualifying session at 5 p.m. ET. The main race event is set for Sunday, October 25, at 4 p.m. ET.

To celebrate the milestone, Apple is organizing a public viewing event at its Domain NORTHSIDE retail location in Austin, Texas. The store will host a live screening of Sunday’s race. This venue recently served as the launch site for the iPhone Duo, where Apple CEO John Ternus and retail executive Deirdre O'Brien appeared on Friday.

The tech giant has also updated its mapping services to accommodate the influx of fans. Apple recently extended its Detailed City Experience feature to the city of Austin. This update includes a high-resolution map of the Circuit of The Americas. The digital guide features turn numbers, grandstand locations, and three-dimensional landmarks to assist visitors with navigation.

Access to this upgraded broadcast experience is available through the Apple TV service. The subscription costs $14.99 per month for individual users. Alternatively, it is included in the broader Apple One bundle. The platform continues to offer a library of popular original series and films, including titles such as Ted Lasso, Severance, The Studio, The Morning Show, Shrinking, and Silo.