Apple Expands Apple TV with Formula 1, CarPlay Updates, and Video Podcasts

Apple continues to integrate its services into more aspects of daily life, with recent updates and announcements spanning Apple TV, CarPlay, and Apple Podcasts. These developments signal a broader strategy to enhance user experiences across entertainment, transportation, and content creation.

Formula 1 Races Now Exclusive to Apple TV in the U.S.

Starting in 2026, Apple TV will be the exclusive home for Formula 1 races in the United States, following a five-year partnership announced in October 2025. Apple and Formula 1 aim to deliver a more dynamic viewing experience, including all practice, qualifying, Sprint sessions, and Grands Prix. Select races and all practice sessions will be available for free within the Apple TV app. The partnership builds on the success of the Apple Original Films’ movie, F1: The Movie.

Subscribers to Apple TV will have access to comprehensive coverage, while the Apple Sports app will provide live updates, leaderboards, and Lock Screen Live Activities for each Grand Prix. F1 TV Premium, Formula 1’s premium content offering, will also be available through an Apple TV subscription.

Beyond streaming, Apple will amplify Formula 1 content across Apple News, Apple Maps, Apple Music, and Apple Fitness+.

CarPlay Integrates Apple TV and AI Chatbots

Updates to CarPlay, revealed in beta builds, will bring Apple TV integration to vehicle infotainment systems. While video playback will be limited to when the vehicle is stationary, users will be able to stream Apple TV shows. Apple is prioritizing safety by restricting video playback to parked vehicles.

CarPlay will also introduce support for AI-powered conversational apps, such as ChatGPT and Claude, though Apple is implementing strict controls to ensure driver safety and prevent distractions. The integration will be limited to voice-driven interactions, and responses will be carefully managed.

Apple Podcasts Embraces Video Content

Apple Podcasts is receiving a significant update in spring 2026 to support video podcasts, utilizing HTTP Live Streaming (HLS) for native playback, adaptive streaming, and dynamic video ad insertions. This move requires podcasters to consider visual elements, including camera presence, set design, and overall presentation.

Formula 1 Viewing Options Expand Beyond Streaming

For those seeking a more communal viewing experience, select Formula 1 races will be shown live in IMAX theaters. Apple has partnered with EverPass to produce Apple TV sports content, including Formula 1 and Major League Baseball, accessible to commercial establishments like sports bars across the United States.

Apple TV Subscription Details

An Apple TV subscription costs $12.99 per month or $99 per year. The annual plan requires an initial monthly subscription followed by a switch to the annual billing cycle. Apple TV is also available through Apple One bundles and as a perk for Apple Music Student Plan subscribers. A single subscription can be shared with up to six family members.