Apple has awarded an additional $250 million from its Advanced Manufacturing Fund to Corning to further support research and development, and support manufacturing innovations.

Today’s funding builds on the $200 million that Corning received in a similar manner in May 2017.

The investment will be utilized for building state-of-the-art glass processes, equipment and materials integral to the delivery of next-generation consumer devices.

Apple has been using Corning’s technology for more than a decade, from the launch of its first iPhone to its latest iPhone 11 and iPhone 11 Pro that used the glass made at Corning’s Harrodsburg, Kentucky plant.

The newest iPhone models feature the toughest glass ever in a smartphone, as well as a back machined from a single piece of glass that allows for wireless charging, Apple said.

Apple’s Advanced Manufacturing Fund was designed to foster and support the innovative production and high-skill jobs that will help fuel a new era of technology-driven manufacturing in the US.

To date, Apple has invested over $1 billion in American companies from its Advanced Manufacturing Fund. In other similar commitments, Apple granted $390 million to Finisar and $10 million to the Elysis aluminum partnership.

Wendell P. Weeks, Corning’s chairman, chief executive officer and president, said Corning will use the fund to develop groundbreaking new glass innovations as well as expanding their manufacturing capabilities.

“Most importantly, our ongoing collaboration allows us to create vital new capabilities for end users and continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible well into the future,” Weeksadded.

The Harrodsburg facility serves as Corning’s global glass technology center, working closely with scientists at Sullivan Park in Corning, New York, to develop advanced glass solutions for next-generation technologies.