Kentucky Plant to Produce 100% of Global iPhone, Apple Watch Cover Glass with $2.5 Billion Apple Investment

Harrodsburg, Kentucky – Apple CEO Tim Cook visited the Corning Inc. manufacturing facility in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, on a recent iPhone pre-order day, highlighting a significant expansion that will see the plant become the exclusive global producer of cover glass for all iPhone and Apple Watch units. This move is backed by a new $2.5 billion commitment from Apple, deepening a long-standing partnership between the two companies. Apple's substantial investment is part of its broader $600 billion commitment to the U.S. economy over the next four years, which includes the newly established American Manufacturing Program. The funding will enable Corning to dedicate its entire Harrodsburg facility to Apple's production needs, creating the world's largest and most advanced smartphone glass production line. By the end of 2026, all cover glass for these devices sold worldwide will originate from this Kentucky plant. The expansion is projected to increase Corning's manufacturing and engineering workforce in Kentucky by 50%, adding approximately 150 new jobs to the current 350 employees. Furthermore, Apple and Corning will establish a new Innovation Center at the Harrodsburg site. This center will focus on advanced materials research and development, aiming to create next-generation manufacturing platforms for future Apple products. The partnership between Apple and Corning dates back to the original iPhone's launch in 2007, with the Harrodsburg plant having produced glass for every generation of the device. The facility currently manufactures Ceramic Shield, an advanced glass-ceramic material known for its durability. Cook expressed his enthusiasm on social media, stating, > "It's iPhone pre-order day and what better place to spend it than at Corning in Harrodsburg, KY! Soon all cover glass for iPhone and Apple Watch globally will be made here. We're proud to be an engine for American innovation." This initiative has garnered bipartisan support, with praise from both Republican President Donald Trump and Democratic Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, underscoring its impact on American manufacturing. Corning Chief Operating Officer Hal Nelson emphasized the transformation, noting that combining Apple and Corning's expertise will enable the production of 100% of the cover glass for Apple's iconic products.