Apple to Broadcast NBA Games on Vision Pro by 2026

Experience Lakers Games in a Revolutionary Format

In an exciting collaboration, Apple and Spectrum SportsNet are set to bring a new dimension to NBA viewing. Select Los Angeles Lakers matches will be directly accessible on the Apple Vision Pro during the 2025-2026 season. These games will be captured in the Apple Immersive video format, the same virtual reality-friendly style that Apple employed for its recent Metallica concert film.

This venture promises to breathe new life into the $3,500 Apple Vision Pro, as the in-headset experience offers unique angles and perspectives that transcend traditional broadcasting, according to Apple. However, live streaming will be restricted to those who own the headset within the Lakers' broadcast area—Southern California, Hawaii, and parts of southern Nevada—and likely requires a subscription. That said, recorded games and highlights will have a broader reach, available in selected regions across the SportsNet and NBA apps. Exact game details are yet to be disclosed, but an announcement is planned for the fall, with action rolling out early in 2026.

Vision Pro: A New Era for Sports Viewing

Despite its potential as a superior media device, the Vision Pro's sports-specific content has been sparse. While Apple facilitates viewing of programs like Friday Night Baseball and Major League Soccer, the NBA stands out as the principal league optimizing offerings for Vision Pro users. Beyond live gameplay, the NBA visionOS application enhances the experience with live player statistics, multiview game streaming, and a 3D, miniaturized game layout.

As Apple gears towards a focus on developing smart glasses over a more affordable variant of the Vision Pro, the key for the company is to provide existing users with engaging new content. Although not everyone is a fan of the Lakers, this initiative could potentially pave the way for a broader array of live sports viewing options, a prospect that's undeniably positive.