Apple has captured, produced, and released a short sports film in 8K 3D and Spatial Audio, now available on Apple Vision Pro. Meanwhile, its live broadcast remains in HD.

In recent months, people have noticed advanced camera systems at Major League Soccer (MLS) stadiums in the US. The company confirmed that these cameras capture moments in 8K resolution and 3D using the 'Apple Immersive Video' format.

- "... all Apple Vision Pro users can experience the best of the 2023 MLS Cup Playoffs with the first-ever sports film captured in Apple Immersive Video. Viewers will feel every heart-pounding moment in 8K 3D with a 180-degree field of view and Spatial Audio that transports them to each match," Apple said in February.

It is a technical achievement and a generational leap over the current 4K HDR ecosystem. Apple has not commented on the frame rate.


 Apple's first sports film in 8K 3D is a short MLS highlight reel. Photo: AppleInsider

The first short sports film in 8K 3D, titled 2023 MLS Cup Highlights, was released on March 28 for streaming in the Apple TV app on Apple Vision Pro, as reported by AppleInsider.

It joins four other 'immersive' titles: Prehistoric Planet Immersive, Wild Life, Adventure, and Alicia Keys: Rehearsal Room. No additional shows have been released in the format since the launch of Vision Pro.


Live broadcast remains in HD
Apple holds global 10-year rights to MLS, which is currently available as a season pass in the Apple TV app.

The company has not announced plans to move beyond 1080p SDR for live broadcasts of MLS matches.

 Also read: Is Apple Vision Pro the future of home cinema?

So, while Apple is experimenting with 8K 3D immersive videos to bring viewers closer to the action, those using devices other than Vision Pro are not yet benefiting from these efforts.

- Source: AppleInsider