During a recent visit to Corning’s factory in Kentucky, Apple CEO Tim Cook spotlighted the company’s latest innovations, including the ultra-slim iPhone Air. Speaking with CNBC’s Jim Cramer, Cook joked that the device was “so thin it might not appear on camera.” While some critics expressed concern about its smaller battery, Cook reassured audiences by pointing to its 27-hour performance, emphasizing that efficiency had been achieved without compromise.
Design Choices That Power the iPhone Air
Cook revealed that the iPhone Air’s longevity comes from design changes that freed up space for a larger battery. By eliminating physical SIM card components, Apple was able to extend runtime while maintaining the device’s sleek form factor. He also noted that Apple strives to balance customer feedback with forward-looking ideas, introducing tools like Center Stage and Live Translation—features that users may not have anticipated but quickly embraced.
Corning Partnership Deepens
Alongside Corning CEO Wendell Weeks, Cook highlighted Apple’s long-standing relationship with the glass manufacturer. Corning’s Kentucky facility, which supplied the first Gorilla Glass for Apple nearly two decades ago, will now triple its capacity and dedicate its production entirely to iPhone glass. Weeks underscored that the expansion demonstrates the competitiveness and quality of American manufacturing.
Cook also announced that by 2026, every iPhone and Apple Watch sold globally will feature glass produced at this U.S. site. The move is part of Apple’s $600 billion investment in domestic supply chain development over the next four years.
A Strategic Step Forward
Apple’s investment in Corning reflects a broader commitment to strengthening its supply chain while supporting U.S. manufacturing jobs. By securing a reliable source of high-quality glass, Apple positions itself to meet growing demand while underscoring its reputation for innovation and resilience. The iPhone Air and Corning’s expanded production mark not just a product launch, but a signal of Apple’s long-term vision for technology and domestic growth.