Apple's F1 Camera Rig Revealed [Video]

Following a recent report detailing how Apple built a custom iPhone-based camera for its upcoming F1 movie, new videos from creators Bobby Tonelli and SuperSaf now offer a closer look at the unique hardware.

The videos showcase the custom camera module being mounted on an F1 car, highlighting the need for a solution that met the strict weight and size requirements of the sport—where every gram counts. Standard cinema cameras were too heavy, while typical onboard broadcast cameras didn't offer the image quality needed for a feature film.



To solve this, Apple engineered a camera that fits the form factor of a broadcast module but is powered by iPhone technology internally. As we've previously noted, it uses an iPhone camera sensor, an A-series chip for processing, and an iPhone battery.


The new videos offer a clear look at the custom iPad app used to control the camera's settings. A technician is seen adjusting the frame rate to 24fps to match the film's cinematic look, and dialing in other parameters like shutter angle and white balance. The footage was captured in 4K Log, a feature that was still in development for the iPhone at the time and later debuted with the iPhone 15 Pro.

The F1 movie, starring Brad Pitt, is set for a worldwide theatrical release on June 27.

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