Formula 1 Audio Upgrade: Apple TV Debuts Dolby Atmos at US Grand Prix

Apple TV subscribers in the United States gained access to Dolby Atmos audio for Formula 1 coverage on Friday, October 23. The United States Grand Prix is the first race in the sport's history to be broadcast in this format.

Apple and Dolby Laboratories confirmed the technical change earlier this month. The announcement stated that support for the immersive audio standard would begin with the current Grand Prix weekend.

The company describes the audio upgrade as a way to place viewers inside the environment of race weekend. The system captures specific sounds, including team radio communications, commentary, and engine noise. It also records the sounds of on-track battles and pit lane activity.

Apple claims the combination of Dolby Atmos audio with Dolby Vision video creates a specific sensory experience. The company states that the rich colors and clarity of the video, paired with the surround sound, position fans at the center of the action.

The first practice session for the weekend has already concluded. However, the remaining sessions are scheduled for the coming days. Practice 2 is set for Friday, October 23, at 5 p.m. Eastern Time.

On Saturday, October 24, Practice 3 begins at 1:30 p.m. ET. Qualifying follows later that day at 5 p.m. ET. The main race event is scheduled for Sunday, October 25, at 4 p.m. ET.

Apple is hosting a live screening of the Sunday race at its Domain NORTHSIDE store in Austin, Texas. This location served as the site for the iPhone Duo launch earlier on Friday. Apple CEO John Ternus and retail chief Deirdre O'Brien were present for that event.

The company also updated Apple Maps to assist fans navigating the venue. The Detailed City Experience feature now covers Austin. A specific map of the Circuit of The Americas includes turn numbers, grandstand locations, and 3D landmarks.

Apple TV is available for $14.99 per month. It is also included in the Apple One bundle. The streaming service hosts series such as Ted Lasso, Severance, The Studio, The Morning Show, Shrinking, and Silo.