Beijing Time, September 17 — In a significant move to bolster US jobs and the development of cutting-edge glass for the next generation of iPhones, Apple has announced an additional investment of $250 million in Corning Incorporated through its Advanced Manufacturing Fund. This latest injection brings the total investment in Corning to $450 million, following an initial $200 million investment in 2017.
This decision is not a spontaneous one. In May 2017, Apple CEO Tim Cook hinted at the establishment of a $1 billion Advanced Manufacturing Fund during an interview with CNBC. The fund was aimed at investing in companies related to Apple’s supply chain, creating a ripple effect to boost job opportunities within the United States. The initiative was designed to nurture and support innovative production and high-skilled jobs.
The move came as President Trump expressed his desire for Apple to shift its manufacturing operations to the US. However, Cook publicly stated that manufacturing in the US did not align with Apple’s strategy, and this latest investment seems to be a form of conciliation towards Trump’s wishes.
In the same month, Corning became the first beneficiary of the fund, receiving a $200 million investment. Apple said at the time that the funds would be primarily used to support Corning’s research and development, capital equipment needs, and advanced glass processing. The partnership between Apple and Corning dates back to 10 years ago when the first iPhone was launched, marking the beginning of a collaboration that has driven the mobile phone industry forward.
Corning’s plant in Harrodsburg, Kentucky (Source: Apple官网)
In its press release, Apple highlighted that Corning’s plant in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, has been a key part of the companies’ 10-year collaboration and will be the focus of the additional investment. Every generation of iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch glass has been produced here. The new material glass panels used in the iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro series are also a testament to Corning’s exceptional technology.
The Key to iPhone 11 Series’ Success: The Glass
For the new iPhone, apart from the improved camera quality, the iPhone 11 Pro series’ most significant change is the frosted glass design on the back.
Glass, a commonly used material in everyday life, from drinking glasses to window panes, was revolutionized by Steve Jobs when he introduced the first iPhone with a glass screen in 2007. This marked a turning point in the smartphone industry, leading to the爆发 of mobile internet. With the launch of the iPhone 4, Jobs introduced glass on both the front and back panels, creating a design that sold like hotcakes.
After years of metal and plastic back designs, the iPhone X, along with the iPhone 8 and iPhone 8 Plus, brought back glass in 2017. The smooth surface and pleasant feel captivated consumers. However, glass has its drawbacks: it is heavy and prone to breaking, and it easily collects fingerprints.
The fragility of glass is inherent due to its transparent, brittle, and airtight nature. This has been a significant hurdle for smartphone manufacturers. However, the iPhone 11 Pro series has shown a glimmer of hope. By adding sand or chemicals like sulfuric acid to the glass and using high-pressure air streams to create a frosted texture, Apple claims this is the most durable glass in a smartphone. The iPhone 11, on the other hand, features an anodized aluminum frame with smooth glass on the front and back, creating a stark contrast between the affordable and flagship models.
iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, and iPhone 11 Pro Max (Source: The Verge)
Additionally, the durability of the back glass has been continuously improving since the iPhone XS. In a 2018 test by CNET, the iPhone XS screen was subjected to four drop tests on a concrete sidewalk. Despite some scratches and dents, the screen did not crack once, suggesting that Apple’s technology, likely developed in partnership with Corning, has hit the mark for many potential upgraders who want both durability and a better feel.
Behind the Bet: Apple’s Anxiety
Since the launch of the first iPhone in 2007, Apple has spent nearly $3 billion on Corning for mobile phone, watch, and tablet glass. To date, Apple has exhausted the initial $1 billion of its Advanced Manufacturing Fund, with 20% of the subsequent $5 billion already allocated. Apart from Corning, Apple has also
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