US Grand Prix Airs With 3D Sound on Apple TV

Apple TV subscribers in the United States began receiving Formula 1 broadcasts with Dolby Atmos audio on Friday, October 23. The United States Grand Prix at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, is the first race in the sport’s history to use this specific audio format. The upgrade affects all coverage during the weekend, from practice runs to the final race.

Apple and Dolby Laboratories announced the addition earlier in October. The company stated that the surround sound design aims to place viewers directly in the middle of the event. This includes capturing the noise of engines, the intensity of the pit lane, and specific audio from team radios and commentary. Apple noted that combining this audio with Dolby Vision visuals creates a clearer and more immersive viewing experience.

Practice 1 has already concluded, but the remaining sessions are scheduled for the weekend. Practice 2 airs at 5 p.m. ET on Friday, October 23. On Saturday, October 24, Practice 3 begins at 1:30 p.m. ET. Qualifying follows at 5 p.m. ET on the same day. The main race is set for Sunday, October 25, at 4 p.m. ET.

To promote the event, Apple is hosting a live viewing party for the Sunday race at its Domain NORTHSIDE store in Austin. The location recently hosted CEO John Ternus and retail chief Deirdre O’Brien on Friday for the launch of the iPhone Duo. Apple Maps has also been updated to support the event.

The company expanded its Detailed City Experience to Austin, which includes a specific map of the Circuit of The Americas. This map features turn numbers, grandstand locations, and three-dimensional landmarks to help fans navigate the venue. Apple TV costs $14.99 per month or is available through the Apple One bundle. The service also streams original titles such as Ted Lasso, Severance, The Studio, The Morning Show, Shrinking, and Silo.

The audio upgrade marks a shift in how Apple broadcasts motorsports. Previous F1 coverage on the platform used standard audio channels. The Atmos format allows for directional sound placement that tracks the movement of cars around the track. This technical change is now live for all US-based viewers subscribed to the service.