All movies and series on Apple TV+ are available in glorious 4K Dolby Vision with Dolby Atmos, but the upcoming Major League Soccer matches will be streamed in 1080p SDR and 5.1 Dolby only.

The first 4K TVs were launched around 10 years ago in 2013, but HD resolution remains the prevailing format for broadcasts.

If you had hoped that Apple could change status quo with its big investment in Major League Soccer, you will unfortunately be disappointed.

- "Fans will enjoy enhanced production quality when watching matches on MLS Season Pass, which will feature more camera angles, 1080p video, Dolby 5.1 audio, and enhanced data and graphics in live match coverage all season long for better field coverage, replays, and storytelling around the clubs and players," announced Apple and MLS.

Major League Baseball (MLB) matches on the Apple TV app are also in 1080p SDR.


 Like MLB, MLS will be available from within the Apple TV app. Photo: Apple

Sports transmissions elsewhere are a little better, but not much. For the first time, this year's Super Bowl final was broadcast in Dolby Vision HDR but the 4K feed was upscaled from 1080p.

Apple has signed a 10-year global deal with MLS. The new season kicks off on February 25, 2023, and the MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+ will cost $14.99 per month or $99 per season. Existing Apple TV+ subscribers can sign up at a special price of $12.99 per month or $79 per season.

To watch it you need the Apple TV app on an Apple device, Amazon FireTV, Android TV, Google TV, Roku, a compatible Smart TV or a game console.