One of the most unique aspects of Apple’s MLS Season Pass is the wealth of value-added content that is available to promote the league. As such, we decided to write about our first impressions of the preseason content on the streaming subscription app, which is currently available for free off the paywall. Plus, we’re including our initial thoughts on what it’s like to watch MLS games live on Apple.
First impressions of the MLS season pass
When World Soccer Talk reported the end of MLS on regional sports broadcast networks several months ago, I had to admit I was a little skeptical about the development. I was concerned about the possible lack of content and the challenge of getting more people to subscribe to the games. In particular, my concern was that fans would miss out on watching their home teams on TV.
However, after spending a week using MLS Season Pass, my concerns are slowly disappearing. After logging into the Apple TV website for the first time, I was impressed by all the content provided. And that’s not just for league-wide video content, but for all 29 MLS clubs.
First look at MLS game broadcasts
Before I get to the team-specific content, let me first share my thoughts on what it’s like to watch games in MLS Season Pass. As a bonus, Apple and MLS decided to stream some preseason games this past weekend, and here’s what I found:
Image quality: excellent. At 1080p, the live gameplay I watched seemed to be in HD. The new scorebug (pictured above) is simple but effective. And the Apple TV logo in the top right corner isn’t distracting at all. With the Apple logo on the screen, it makes the broadcast look very professional.
Viewing Options: I joined the broadcast of the Orlando vs. New England friendly a few minutes late. Instead of automatically entering the game live, MLS Season Pass gives you the chance to watch the game from the beginning. Or you can join the live stream. That’s music to the ears of football fans.
MLS Season Pass also allows you to select your broadcast language preference (see screenshot above).
Local Radio Broadcasts – The most revolutionary aspect of the MLS Season Pass is the option to listen to the local radio broadcast for the game call. At the Orlando vs. New England game, I was able to toggle between the MLS announcers or local and local radio stations. Like Apple’s technology, it’s easy to use and works perfectly (shown in the screenshot below).
All you have to do is click on the radio icon in the bottom right corner of the screen and then choose the option you want.
In general, the audio and video quality in MLS Season Pass for the first game I watched was excellent.
If all MLS broadcasts can be as good as this one, then this is fantastic news for soccer fans.
MLS Season Pass First Impressions of Video Content
Going back to the pre-season MLS video content that’s available, great features are included, such as highlights from the 2022 season. Additionally, the MLS Season Pass features memorable games from the league’s history, including the Red Wedding of 2016.
Plus, there’s the San Jose Earthquakes’ incredible playoff comeback win against the LA Galaxy in 2003. Of course, there are video features about the start of the MLS dynasty involving DC United’s early years.
You learn the history of all 29 clubs as St Louis City comes into existence in 2023. Plus, you get drone fly-overs of all 29 MLS stadiums, plus features on MLS Legends and MLS player legacies from Tony Meola. . and Carlos Valderrama to Clint Dempsey, Landon Donovan, Tim Howard and the iconic world soccer stars David Beckham, Juan Pablo Angel and Thierry Henry.
Major League Soccer Guide
Here are some resources to help you get the most out of the MLS Season Pass!
Team specific content is perfect for fans.
There is so much content available on MLS Season Pass from the league, individual teams, and their social media departments. With all 29 clubs, it takes several days to scan each piece of video and view it on your computer, laptop, or any web-enabled device.
MLS Season Pass is the kind of video content MLS fans have been asking for ever since they became a fan. And now, the partnership between MLS and Apple delivers results where previous broadcasters didn’t.
For me, the best part of MLS Season Pass is that there are no blackouts.
It’s a new era in producing sports league content, and it hasn’t let me down yet. For more information on the MLS Season Pass, please read the MLS FAQ for answers to frequently asked questions.
