Corning faces an EU antitrust investigation amid suspicions that the company abused its market dominance to squeeze out rival makers of shatter-proof smartphone screens. The European Commission said on Wednesday it was concerned the company could distort competition by striking exclusive deals with phone makers.
The Brussels-based European Commission said the agreements may also prevent rival glassmakers from striking deals with smartphone makers.
"We are investigating whether Corning is trying to squeeze out rival glass producers and thereby deprive consumers of cheaper, more shatter-resistant glass," EU Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager said in a statement.
While Corning still has a chance to assuage the committee's concerns, it could ultimately face hefty fines of up to 10% of annual global revenue.
Corning sells alkali-aluminosilicate glass under brands such as Gorilla Glass, which is used primarily in display covers for portable electronic devices such as cell phones, tablets or smart watches.