Experience the NBA Like Never Before: Lakers Games in Apple Immersive on Vision Pro
Basketball enthusiasts and technology aficionados are in for a groundbreaking experience as Apple, in collaboration with Spectrum, introduces live Los Angeles Lakers games in Apple Immersive format on the Apple Vision Pro headset. This innovative partnership marks a significant leap in sports broadcasting, offering fans an unparalleled, immersive viewing experience.
A New Era in Sports Viewing
In October 2025, Apple and Spectrum announced their collaboration to stream select Lakers games during the 2025-2026 NBA season in Apple Immersive 180-degree video format, tailored for Apple Vision Pro users. This initiative aims to redefine how fans engage with live sports, bringing the excitement of the game directly into their living rooms.
First Game and Viewing Details
The inaugural game under this partnership took place on January 9, 2026, featuring the Los Angeles Lakers against the Milwaukee Bucks. Apple Vision Pro users within the Lakers’ regional broadcast territory—which includes Southern California, Hawaii, and parts of Southern Nevada—had the opportunity to watch the game live in Apple Immersive format. The games are accessible through the new Spectrum SportsNet app and the NBA app, providing fans with multiple platforms to enjoy the immersive experience.
Immersive Features and Technology
Spectrum Front Row in Apple Immersive utilizes a high-quality feed of up to 150Mbps, delivering seven unique viewing angles:
– Scorer’s table
– Areas behind the baskets
– High and wide view of the arena
– Player tunnel
– Broadcast booth
– Roaming courtside perspective
This setup allows viewers to experience the game from multiple vantage points, closely mimicking the sensation of being present at the arena. In-game graphics, such as player rosters and shot clocks, are rendered in 3D, enhancing the depth and realism of the broadcast. Spatial audio, captured via Ambisonic microphones, further immerses viewers by replicating the dynamic sounds of the game environment.
Access and Availability
For fans within the regional broadcast territory, the immersive games are available to all Spectrum Internet customers and video subscribers whose packages include Spectrum SportsNet. Outside these regions, including other U.S. markets and select international locations where the Apple Vision Pro is available, fans can access the games by creating a free NBA ID and using the NBA app.
To enjoy this immersive experience, users need an Apple Vision Pro equipped with an M2 or M5 chip and running visionOS 26.
Upcoming Games Schedule
The initial schedule for the immersive Lakers games is as follows:
– January 9: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Milwaukee Bucks
– February 5: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Philadelphia 76ers
– February 20: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Los Angeles Clippers
– March 5: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Denver Nuggets
– March 10: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Minnesota Timberwolves
– March 30: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Washington Wizards
Full game replays and highlights in Apple Immersive format will also be available across the United States and in select international markets shortly after the live broadcasts.
The Future of Immersive Sports Broadcasting
This collaboration between Apple and Spectrum signifies a transformative moment in sports broadcasting. By leveraging advanced technology to create an immersive viewing experience, it sets a new standard for how fans engage with live sports. As this technology evolves, it holds the potential to revolutionize the consumption of sports content, making it more interactive and engaging than ever before.
