Apple TV streams US Grand Prix with Dolby Atmos

Apple TV subscribers in the United States began receiving Formula 1 coverage with Dolby Atmos audio 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 announced the partnership earlier this month to bring the audio upgrade to the platform.

The service costs $14.99 per month. Customers can also access it as part of the Apple One bundle. The subscription includes other original programming such as Ted Lasso, Severance, and The Morning Show.

Apple describes the audio upgrade as a way to place viewers in the center of the race weekend. The sound design includes team radio chatter, commentary, and engine noise. The company states that combining Dolby Atmos with Dolby Vision creates a high-fidelity visual and auditory experience.

The race weekend schedule continues this week. Practice 2 started at 5 p.m. ET on Friday, October 23. Practice 3 is scheduled for 1:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, October 24. Qualifying follows on Saturday at 5 p.m. ET. The main race event is set for 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, October 25.

Apple is hosting a live viewing event for the Sunday race at its Domain NORTHSIDE store in Austin, Texas. John Ternus, Apple's CEO, and Deirdre O'Brien, the retail chief, visited the location on Friday for the iPhone Duo launch. The store serves as a hub for the event coverage.

Apple also updated its mapping services for the event. The company expanded its Detailed City Experience to include Austin. A new 3D map of the Circuit of The Americas features turn numbers, grandstands, and landmarks to assist fans with navigation.

The audio upgrade covers all on-track action. It includes the intensity of pit lane stops and on-track battles. The change marks a new standard for home viewing of the sport.