The deal comes as demand for high-speed optical connectivity is surging across the tech industry, driven by the rapid expansion of artificial intelligence infrastructure. Corning’s cables are crucial for supporting the enormous computing and data-transmission needs of modern AI data centers.
In an interview cited by CNBC, Corning CEO Wendell Weeks said that AI hyperscalers such as Meta, Amazon, Google, and Microsoft are expected to be the company’s largest customers in 2026.
A Big Win for Corning — and a Sign of AI Infrastructure Growth
Corning’s optical-connectivity products are now central to the backbone of AI-powered data centers. The company’s shares have surged more than 84% in 2025, reflecting growing investor confidence in the future of AI infrastructure. Following the CNBC report, Corning’s stock climbed over 7% in premarket trading.
To meet rising demand, Corning is expanding its cable manufacturing facility in Hickory, North Carolina, to support both Big Tech clients and other AI companies including Nvidia and OpenAI, CNBC reported.
Meta’s AI Buildout Continues Amid Competitive Pressure
Meta has been aggressively investing in data center expansion as it races to keep pace in the AI market. Earlier this month, the company unveiled its “Meta Compute” initiative, aimed at expanding AI infrastructure and managing its global data center network.
Despite recent setbacks — including a lukewarm reception to its Llama 4 model — Meta remains committed to large-scale investment. The company has pledged roughly $600 billion toward U.S. technology infrastructure and job creation over the next three years.
Upcoming Earnings Will Test Market Expectations
Both Meta and Corning are scheduled to release quarterly earnings on Wednesday, a development that investors will closely watch for clues about the strength of AI demand and future spending plans.
Neither company responded to Reuters’ request for comment on the report.