The US-based glass manufacturer is the company behind Gorilla Glass, the shatterproof glass used to protect the screens used in all popular smartphones. Today, the European Commission Corning for anti-competitive practices, alleging that the glass manufacturer restricts competition through exclusive supply agreements.
According to a press release, Corning requires cell phone manufacturers to source all or nearly all of their alkali-AS glass from it, and also offers these companies discounts if they do so. Additionally, these phone manufacturers must notify Corning if they receive competitive offers from other glass manufacturers. They are not allowed to accept this offer unless Corning can match or beat the price.
Similarly, Corning has agreements with companies that process green glass, forcing them to source all or most of their alkali-AS glass from Corning. And they are not allowed to challenge Corning’s patents.
These costs reinforce how aggressive Corning is in defending its dominant position in the smartphone glass screen market. The latest Apple and Android devices, such as , often have Gorilla Glass screens, as they are scratch resistant and prevent cracking or breaking. Although not indestructible, glass holds up well to damage. However, Corning’s market dominance coupled with these processes is enough to get the EU’s attention.
Source link
