Full Interview With Apple's Eddy Cue On The Company's Sports Playbook

Core Insights - Apple is reportedly on the verge of acquiring Formula 1 live rights, which could significantly enhance its sports portfolio and viewing experience for fans [1][10][15] - The value of Formula 1 rights has dramatically increased, from approximately $4 million 12 years ago to an estimated $140-$150 million per year, indicating a growing interest in the sport [10][11] - Despite the growth, the current viewership in the U.S. is relatively small, with only about 1 million people watching a given race, suggesting substantial potential for further expansion [11][12] Group 1: Apple and Formula 1 Relationship - Apple has a long-standing admiration for Formula 1, with a personal connection to the sport through its board member involvement with Ferrari [4][8] - The company has previously produced a movie related to Formula 1, which has helped to elevate the sport's profile and showcase the athleticism of its drivers [5][7][6] - There is a strong alignment between Apple's technological focus and the advanced technology utilized in Formula 1, making it a natural fit for collaboration [25][26] Group 2: Viewing Experience Innovations - Apple aims to enhance the viewing experience for Formula 1 by leveraging its technology, including high-quality video and innovative camera placements [17][20] - The potential integration of augmented reality through devices like Vision Pro could revolutionize how fans experience races, providing immersive and interactive viewing options [21][22] - The company has learned valuable lessons from its partnerships with other sports leagues, which could inform its approach to broadcasting Formula 1 [16][34] Group 3: Sports Strategy and Market Dynamics - The current sports landscape presents both opportunities and challenges for Apple, as the company seeks to acquire comprehensive rights to sports content while navigating a fragmented subscription model [28][33] - There is a growing demand for a more streamlined viewing experience, with fans expressing frustration over the complexity of multiple subscriptions and blackout restrictions [29][30][35] - Apple's strategy emphasizes the importance of providing unique and differentiated offerings in the sports broadcasting space, rather than simply competing for existing rights [44][55]