If you’ve ever watched a Formula One race, you’ve likely seen the typical onboard shots captured from behind the cockpit, showing the driver’s helmet and the track ahead. Traditionally, these views are recorded using low-resolution cameras designed for live broadcast. But for the upcoming Formula One movie starring Brad Pitt, Apple took things to the next level—by building a custom camera module using iPhone components.
To achieve immersive, high-resolution point-of-view (POV) footage without affecting car performance, Apple’s engineering team replaced the standard F1 broadcast camera with a camera built from iPhone internals. This was done in collaboration with the film’s director Joseph Kosinski and cinematographer Claudio Miranda, both aiming for cinematic quality that exceeded traditional broadcast standards.
As reported by Wired, the custom camera system—visually identical to standard F1 broadcast cameras—houses a modified iPhone camera setup, complete with an A-series chip, iPhone battery, and a neutral density filter for better exposure control. It even runs iOS, although with tweaks to support its specific role on the F1 track. While Apple hasn’t shared all the specs, it’s believed the camera uses a system similar to the iPhone 15 Pro’s 48MP sensor.
Apple’s engineers also designed the module to withstand intense racing conditions—extreme vibrations, heat, and G-forces—while capturing footage in ProRes log format, ideal for detailed post-production. Lacking wireless connectivity, the camera is controlled via USB-C using a custom iPad app that adjusts frame rate, white balance, shutter angle, exposure gain, and more.
YouTuber Bobby Tonelli provided an in-depth look at the custom setup, highlighting Apple’s attention to detail.
Apple is betting big on the F1 movie, not only with innovative filming tech but also with promotional experiences like a “haptic trailer” designed exclusively for iPhones, using the Taptic Engine to deliver a physical feel of the film’s racing action. Directed by Top Gun: Maverick’s Joseph Kosinski, the film will get a full theatrical and IMAX release. It was also spotlighted during Apple’s WWDC 2025 and screened for select guests at the Steve Jobs Theater.
This F1 project is Apple’s first major theatrical blockbuster, marking a bold step as the company expands its Apple TV+ portfolio of original content.