Apple deepens its ties to a Kentucky plant that produces cover glass for iPhone and Apple Watch

Core Insights - Apple is investing $2.5 billion in Corning's Harrodsburg plant to produce all cover glass for iPhones and Apple Watches, marking a significant commitment to American manufacturing [5][6][10] - Corning plans to triple production capacity and increase its workforce by 50% at the Harrodsburg facility, which has been associated with Apple since the original iPhone launch in 2007 [4][16] - By the end of 2026, the Harrodsburg plant will exclusively manufacture cover glass for Apple products, enhancing the collaboration between the two companies [9][10] Company Developments - The partnership between Apple and Corning is set to create the largest and most advanced production line for smartphone glass, combining both companies' expertise [8] - Corning's commitment includes proprietary details related to revenue, technology, and advanced manufacturing processes to support Apple's needs [10][11] - An innovation center will be established at the Kentucky plant to foster research and development, bringing together scientists and engineers [11] Workforce Impact - The current workforce of nearly 350 employees at the Harrodsburg plant is expected to grow to at least 500 due to the expansion [16] - Employees express optimism about the stability and growth opportunities that the deepening ties with Apple will bring to the local community [17][18]