Dolby Atmos arrives for F1 fans as Apple TV upgrades United States Grand Prix coverage

Apple TV will deliver Dolby Atmos spatial audio for Formula 1 coverage starting with the United States Grand Prix weekend on 23 October, the company announced alongside Dolby Laboratories. The upgrade adds immersive, multi-directional sound to the Dolby Vision picture quality already available to subscribers this season.

The new audio format will be accessible to viewers using compatible Apple devices or Dolby-compatible televisions paired with supporting technology such as soundbars and home theatre systems running the Apple TV app. The Circuit of the Americas race in Austin will be the first event to carry the full Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision package.

“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 of entertainment 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.”

This is Apple’s first season as F1’s US broadcaster. The existing package already offered 4K resolution, Dolby Vision — which enhances contrast, highlights and colour depth — and 5.1 surround sound. Atmos is designed to move beyond a conventional broadcast feel, placing the viewer closer to the on-track action through three-dimensional audio.

“The sound of Formula 1 is such an important part of what makes the sport so exciting,” said Oliver Schusser, Apple’s vice president of Apple Music and international content. “With Dolby Atmos joining Dolby Vision, fans can experience the energy and intensity of every grand prix in a whole new way.”

The United States Grand Prix weekend opens with a media day on 22 October, before the official broadcast schedule begins with FP1 and FP2 on 23 October. The race itself is scheduled for 3pm local time on Sunday.