Apple to Revolutionize US F1 Broadcasts with VR and New Camera Tech from 2026

Apple is set to take over as the exclusive broadcaster for Formula 1 in the United States starting in 2026, a five-year deal that moves all championship coverage to Apple TV. This partnership extends beyond just where Americans watch races; it promises to transform how they experience them, with Apple teasing virtual reality (VR) and advanced camera technologies.

Why it matters:

Apple's entry into F1 broadcasting could significantly elevate the fan experience, setting new industry standards for live sports content. By leveraging technologies honed during the production of the F1 movie, Apple aims to deliver a more immersive and interactive viewing experience, potentially attracting a broader audience and reshaping F1's presence in the lucrative US market.

The Details:

• Exclusive US Rights: From the 2026 season, Apple TV will be the sole platform for F1 championship coverage in the United States.
• Tech Integration: Apple plans to build on camera and other technologies used in the recently successful F1 movie to enhance broadcast quality and viewer engagement.
• VR and AR Opportunities: Both Apple's Senior Vice President of Services, Eddy Cue, and F1's Chief Media Rights and Broadcast Officer, Ian Holmes, have explicitly mentioned exploring augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies.
  • Holmes stated, "Clearly, there’s certain AR and VR opportunities that we can explore. So it’s very much a relationship across technology as it is content."
• 360-Degree Offering: Apple aims to provide a comprehensive F1 experience, with live, in-race coverage offering more sophistication and variety than ever before in the US.
• Always-On Content: Beyond live races, Apple TV will host a continuous stream of F1 content, catering to both dedicated 'watchers' who consume full races and 'followers' who prefer to dip in and out with different content formats.
• Ecosystem Mobilization: Eddy Cue confirmed that Apple plans to utilize its entire ecosystem—including retail stores, Apple Sports, Podcasts, Music, Books, websites, and Apple News—to promote and enhance the F1 experience for its customers.

What's next:

This landmark partnership signals a significant shift in sports broadcasting, with Apple positioning F1 at the forefront of technological innovation in live content. If successful, the integration of VR and advanced camera technologies could redefine how fans engage with sports, providing an unprecedented level of immersion and accessibility. The full impact of Apple's comprehensive ecosystem approach will be keenly watched as the 2026 season approaches, potentially ushering in a new era for Formula 1 in the United States.