"The 2026 Formula 1 season on Apple TV is off to a strong start, with fans responding positively and viewership up year over year for the first weekend, exceeding both F1 and Apple expectations. Apple didn't give any ratings or other details, but we can glean some clues from previous data. Last year, ESPN said the Australian GP averaged 1.1 million viewers, way up from the previous record of 659,000 in 2019."
"Apple is pouring resources into it in a way that ESPN never did. That includes advanced tech that offers multiple ways for fans to watch, including Multiview, Podium Viewer, driver cams and 4K Dolby Vision coverage, Cue noted. Apple has jumped into Formula 1 racing in other ways as well, taking advantage of a surge in the sport's popularity aided by Netflix's series Formula 1: Drive to Survive."
"It will allow us to enter in the houses of other people in a different way, in great quality that is very important for us. Indeed, Apple is pouring resources into it in a way that ESPN never did, demonstrating the company's commitment to delivering premium Formula 1 coverage through streaming technology and innovative viewing features."
Apple TV+ has launched its exclusive US broadcast rights for Formula 1 with strong viewership results for the 2026 season opener at the Australian Grand Prix. Apple VP Eddy Cue confirmed that viewership exceeded both F1 and Apple expectations, surpassing ESPN's previous year average of 1.1 million viewers. This marks a significant shift from cable to streaming coverage. Apple is investing heavily in the broadcast experience, offering advanced features including Multiview, Podium Viewer, driver cameras, and 4K Dolby Vision coverage. The streaming service is capitalizing on Formula 1's growing popularity, bolstered by Netflix's Drive to Survive series and the Brad Pitt F1 movie. Apple and Netflix have also partnered to share streaming rights for Drive to Survive season eight and select live races.
Read at Engadget
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