Apple TV Adds Dolby Atmos to Its F1 Coverage From Austin
From the United States Grand Prix, Apple TV subscribers get Dolby Atmos sound alongside the already-available Dolby Vision — the first major audio upgrade to the broadcast since Apple became the sport’s US rights holder.
Abu Dhabi © Copyright: Georgi Todorov / LAP.bg
Formula 1 is about to get a little louder — in the good way. Dolby Laboratories and Apple have announced that, starting with the United States Grand Prix weekend on 23 October, Apple TV subscribers will have access to Dolby Atmos alongside the already-available Dolby Vision in F1 coverage. Austin will be the first circuit where fans feel the difference.
What Dolby Atmos actually adds
The technology is designed to shift the broadcast from “watching a race on TV” to “the race happening in your own living room.” Both formats will be available to viewers with compatible Apple devices, as well as Dolby-compatible TVs, soundbars and home theatre systems set up through the Apple TV app.
“Formula 1 is one of the most captivating sports in the world, where every circuit, team, and race weekend has its own visual and sonic identity,” said John Couling, senior vice president at Dolby Laboratories. “Now, with Dolby Atmos joining Dolby Vision for Formula 1 on Apple TV, we’re setting a new bar for how fans experience the sights and sounds of the sport.”
Apple’s first season as the US rights holder
This is the first season Apple has served as Formula 1’s official US broadcaster, letting American fans watch in 4K resolution with Dolby Vision and 5.1 surround sound. Dolby Vision improves picture quality with stronger contrast, brighter highlights and richer colours.
“We’re always looking for new ways to make Formula 1 on Apple TV even better for fans,” said Oliver Schusser, vice president of Apple Music and international content. “The sound of Formula 1 is such an important part of what makes the sport so exciting.”
The United States Grand Prix begins with media day on 22 October, with the official broadcast starting alongside FP1 and FP2 on 23 October. The upgrade is a small footnote next to the title fight, but for viewers who follow every season through headphones and a surround system, the gap between watching a race and feeling one may turn out larger than the marketing copy suggests.
