First F1 Race to Air in Spatial Audio
Apple TV streams the United States Grand Prix in Dolby Atmos starting this weekend at Circuit of The Americas.
By Amina Kaminski ·
One race is the first to ever air in Dolby Atmos. The United States Grand Prix at Circuit of The Americas becomes that event this weekend. Apple TV subscribers in the United States gained access to the spatial audio format on Friday, October 23. The upgrade applies to all Formula 1 coverage on the platform.
Apple and Dolby Laboratories announced the partnership earlier this month. They stated that the audio support would begin with the Grand Prix weekend. The technology aims to place viewers at the center of the race environment. It captures specific elements like team radio, commentary, and engine noise. The company also notes that the sound pairs with Dolby Vision for enhanced visual clarity.
The schedule for the Austin event is packed. Practice 1 has already concluded. Practice 2 airs at 5 p.m. ET on Friday, October 23. Saturday, October 24, brings Practice 3 at 1:30 p.m. ET. Qualifying follows at 5 p.m. ET on the same day. The main race takes place on Sunday, October 25, at 4 p.m. ET.
Apple is hosting a live screening of Sunday's race at its Domain NORTHSIDE store in Austin. The location saw the launch of the iPhone Duo on Friday. Apple CEO John Ternus and retail chief Deirdre O'Brien attended that event. The store serves as a focal point for fans gathering during the weekend.
The company also updated Apple Maps to assist attendees. It expanded its Detailed City Experience to include Austin. The new map features the Circuit of The Americas with turn numbers and grandstands. It also displays 3D landmarks to help visitors navigate the venue.
The service is available for $14.99 per month. It is also included in the Apple One bundle. The platform hosts other titles like Ted Lasso and Severance.
