Formula 1

F1 expands broadcasting coverage with new camera angles and graphics for 2023

Published

4 weeks ago

04/03/2023

F1 expands broadcasting coverage with new camera angles and graphics for 2023

Formula 1 is expanding its broadcasting coverage for 2023 with the incorporation of helmet cameras from up to eight drivers per weekend and fresh cockpit angles. F1 is also experimenting with new on-screen graphics, augmented reality technology, and AI-enhanced slow-motion replays to provide viewers with a more immersive experience.

As part of its 2023 broadcasting strategy, Formula 1 intends to incorporate helmet cameras from as many as eight drivers per weekend, as well as make efforts to introduce fresh cockpit angles.

In 2021, Formula 1 conducted a successful trial of “driver’s eye” camera views, which were used with all 12 drivers who wore Bell helmets. For 2023, the technology has been expanded to include all 20 drivers across various helmet manufacturers.

However, due to limitations in live data harvesting from cars on-track, the number of helmet cameras that can be used per weekend is still limited. Last year, only four of the drivers with cameras were chosen for the world feed. This season, the number is increasing to six in Bahrain and could potentially reach up to eight per weekend throughout the rest of the season.

According to Dean Locke, F1’s director of broadcast and media, there are limitations to the amount of bandwidth available from the car. While helmet cameras provide an excellent view, the question remains whether it is the ideal view to watch the entire race.

Dean Locke also explained that relying too heavily on helmet cameras could end up draining F1’s resources. As a result, F1 plans to use a limited number of helmet cameras each weekend, starting with six in Bahrain and potentially increasing to around eight.

At certain tracks, it is possible for two cameras to stream simultaneously, but F1 is only able to have one live feed from the car at most. Furthermore, F1 must select the limited number of camera angles it wants to use live from a session in advance.

The forward and rear cameras from the rollhoops are always in use, which means that only two other onboard cameras can be utilized per car. This requires F1 to determine which cameras, such as the helmet camera, driver-facing camera, or mini-camera like the nose or side of the chassis, will be used.

The expansion of helmet cameras is just one aspect of F1’s significant expansion of broadcasting coverage this year. F1 is also testing out additional cockpit cameras with new angles, following positive feedback on the new pedal camera angle.

Despite the challenges associated with the new pedal camera angle, which required a camera to be positioned behind the pedals with limited visibility and an LED light to capture footage in the dark footwell, F1 is committed to providing more insight into what the drivers do inside the cockpit.

One idea under consideration is a new angle that would allow for a clearer view of the drivers’ work on the steering wheel, such as a camera placed around the driver’s waist to capture an upward or downward view.

According to Dean Locke, the new pedal camera angle presented challenges due to the smooth and lightless interior of the cockpit, which made mounting the camera difficult. However, the camera angle received positive feedback, which inspired F1’s onboard camera team to explore more cockpit camera options.

Locke emphasized that the cockpit is an area that is rarely seen during races, and that F1 aims to provide viewers with more insight into what the drivers are doing inside the car. Locke expressed envy for MotoGP’s ability to capture everything the riders do on the bike and hopes to achieve a similar level of coverage in F1.

To capture more of what’s happening inside the cockpit, F1 is exploring various options beyond the helmet camera and driver-facing camera. The focus is on the driver’s hands and their actions on the steering wheel, which are critical to the car’s performance.

F1 is collaborating with teams to develop new cockpit camera angles to capture this action more effectively. F1 is also planning to evolve or add on-screen graphics to enhance the viewing experience and provide more insights into the cars and drivers.

F1 plans to expand its use of augmented reality technology, which tags cars and displays real-time graphics such as gaps between drivers, from onboard and external cameras.

F1 also intends to use the technology from the helicopter camera, providing a unique perspective for viewers. Additionally, F1 is evolving its slow-motion replay technology using AI, which can create 700fps replays in 4K by filling in missing frames in seconds.

Other graphic changes include new displays to be rolled out later in the year with key information, such as changes in race lead and drivers off the track, as well as the F1 Sprint’s brand identification, which will be used at six events this year.

F1 expands broadcasting coverage with new camera angles and graphics for 2023 F1 expands broadcasting coverage with new camera angles and graphics for 2023 F1 expands broadcasting coverage with new camera angles and graphics for 2023