Austin race debuts immersive audio

The United States Grand Prix becomes the first Formula 1 race to broadcast with Dolby Atmos audio. The upgrade launched on Friday, October 23, for viewers subscribing to Apple TV in the United States. Apple and Dolby Laboratories announced the partnership earlier this month. They confirmed that the new sound format would debut during the Grand Prix weekend at the Circuit of The Americas.

Apple describes the audio upgrade as a way to place viewers inside the race environment. The system captures team radio, commentary, and engine noise alongside on-track battles and pit lane activity. The company pairs this spatial sound with Dolby Vision visuals. Apple states that the combination delivers rich colors and lifelike clarity to enhance the viewing experience.

The weekend schedule is underway. Practice 1 has already concluded. Practice 2 is scheduled for Friday, October 23, at 5 p.m. ET. On Saturday, October 24, Practice 3 begins at 1:30 p.m. ET. Qualifying follows at 5 p.m. ET. The main race event starts on Sunday, October 25, at 4 p.m. ET.

Apple will host a live screening of Sunday's race at its Domain NORTHSIDE store in Austin, Texas. The retail location served as the venue for the iPhone Duo launch earlier in the week. Apple CEO John Ternus and retail chief Deirdre O'Brien attended that event on Friday.

The company also updated Apple Maps for the occasion. Apple expanded its Detailed City Experience to Austin. The new map includes a specific model of the Circuit of The Americas. It features turn numbers, grandstands, and 3D landmarks to assist fans with navigation around the venue.

Apple TV costs $14.99 per month. Subscribers can also access the service through the Apple One bundle. The platform streams original titles including Ted Lasso, Severance, The Studio, The Morning Show, Shrinking, and Silo.