August 7, 2025 – In a major development, Apple has just revealed an expanded partnership with Corning. The tech giant announced plans to jointly build a factory in Kentucky, USA, with Corning to produce the outer – layer glass for iPhones and Apple Watches sold globally.
Apple is set to invest a massive $2.5 billion in this collaboration with Corning. The aim is to establish what the company describes as the “largest and most advanced smartphone glass production line in history.” This marks a significant milestone as it will be the first time that the outer – layer glass for iPhones and Apple Watches sold worldwide is entirely made in the United States.
A look into the past shows a long – standing and close relationship between Corning glass and the iPhone. Since the iPhone’s debut in 2007, Apple has spent over 3billiononCorningglassforitsiPhones,iPads,andAppleWatches.Moreover,in2017and2019,Appleinvested200 million each time in Corning through its Advanced Manufacturing Fund.
Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “Corning is an American company with a glorious history. We’re thrilled to work together to create the largest and most advanced smartphone glass production line ever. Thanks to the strength of American manufacturing, every customer who buys a new iPhone or Apple Watch will hold glass that has been finely crafted in Kentucky. We appreciate the support of the President and his administration for American manufacturing and look forward to the innovations this investment will unlock.”
Under the agreement, Corning’s new factory in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, will dedicate 100% of its production capacity to making products for Apple. The company also plans to increase its local workforce by 50%. Additionally, it will allocate funds to set up a new Apple – Corning Innovation Center within the factory. This center will focus on developing next – generation materials and manufacturing platforms.
However, there is still some uncertainty. Apple has not provided a specific timeline for this project in its press release regarding the Corning partnership, leaving the exact time frame for the factory’s operation and other related developments unclear.
