For F1, Apple’s new original film, the company came up with the idea of using iPhone cameras to capture scenes inside Formula 1 cars.
+ Microsoft plans a new wave of mass layoffs in the Xbox division, says website
According to Wired, Apple engineers developed a custom camera module using iPhone parts to replace the cameras typically used for live broadcasts of the races.
The project aimed to build a module compact enough to fit into the same space as a standard broadcast unit, while maintaining the same weight and durability to withstand the extreme conditions inside the cockpits.
+ Click here to watch the F1 trailer
After modifications, the module looks more like a standard broadcast unit than a smartphone, but inside it uses the same iPhone camera sensor, along with the battery, chip, and a custom iOS firmware.
According to Wired, they likely used the 48MP sensor and A17 Pro chip from the iPhone 15 Pro. This speculation aligns with the film’s production timeline. The movie, starring Brad Pitt, is set for a worldwide release on June 27.
Additionally, since Formula 1 cars are not allowed to have active radios, Apple also created a custom iPad app that connects to the camera module via USB-C to control it remotely.
In a video posted on his YouTube channel, content creator Bobby Tonelli shared a detailed look at the custom iPhone camera setup.
+ Click here to watch Tonelli’s video
Photo and video: YouTube @Formula1. This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
