EU opens antitrust probe into US mobile phone glass maker

BRUSSELS, Nov 06 (AFP): The European Union (EU) said on Wednesday it has opened an antitrust investigation into US glass producer Corning -- the maker of a break-resistant glass used as display cover in tablets and smartphones.

The probe will assess whether the firm abused its dominant position and distorted competition by concluding exclusive supply agreements with mobile phone manufacturers and firms processing raw glass, the European Commission said.

"It is (a) very frustrating and costly experience to break a mobile phone screen. Therefore, strong competition in the production of the cover glass used to protect such devices is crucial to ensure low prices and high-quality," EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager said.