2.2.0.25truefalse42001 - Disclosure - Operating Segments (Schedule of Segment Reporting Information by Segment) (Details)truefalseIn Millionsfalse1falsefalseUSDfalsefalse1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) USD ($) / shares $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_2010http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00Unit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170Unit14Dividehttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso4217http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0Unit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0Unit13Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDUSD$2falsefalseUSDfalsefalse1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) USD ($) / shares $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_2009http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00Unit13Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0Unit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170Unit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0Unit14Dividehttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso4217http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0USDUSD$3falsefalseUSDfalsefalse1/1/2008 - 12/31/2008 USD ($) USD ($) / shares $Duration_1_1_2008_To_12_31_2008http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2008-01-01T00:00:002008-12-31T00:00:00Unit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170Unit13Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0Unit14Dividehttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso4217http://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0Unit1Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancesharesxbrli0USDUSD$2false0us-gaap_SalesRevenueGoodsNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse66320000006632falsetruefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse53950000005395falsetruefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse59480000005948falsetruefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAggregate revenue during the period from the sale of goods in the normal course of business, after deducting returns, allowances and discounts.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 1 -Article 5 falsefalseNet sales3false0glw_ResearchDevelopmentAndEngineeringExpensesglwfalsedebitdurationThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the...falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse603000000603falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse563000000563falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse627000000627falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the hope that such knowledge will be useful in developing a new product or service, a new process or technique, or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process; or (2) to translate research findings or other knowledge into a plan or design for a new product or process or for a significant improvement to an existing product or process whether intended for sale or the entity's use, during the reporting period charged to research and development projects, including the costs of developing computer software up to the point in time of achieving technological feasibility, and costs allocated in accounting for a business combination to in-process projects deemed to have no alternative future use. Also included are the engineering expenses that are incurred while working on new product design, capacity, optimization programs, etc for products that are not currently being produced.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseResearch, development and engineering expenses4false0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalselabel1truefalsefalse-329000000-329falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse228000000228falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1900000019falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate amount provided for estimated restructuring charges, remediation costs, and asset impairment loss during an accounting period. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both (in which case they would be extraordinary items).No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRestructuring, impairment and other charges credits5false0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestmentsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse19580000001958falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse14350000001435falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse13580000001358falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. Such amount typically reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements, including adjustments to eliminate intercompany gains and losses, and to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between cost and underlying equity in net assets of the investee at the date of investment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 19 -Subparagraph c Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Paragraph 11 -Article 7 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 9 -Article 5 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph b falsefalseCorning's equity in earnings of Samsung Corning Precision6false0us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromProductiveAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse10070000001007falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse890000000890falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse19210000001921falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net cash inflow (outflow) from purchases, sales and disposals of property, plant and equipment and other productive assets, including intangibles.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 15 falsefalseCapital expenditures7false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.corning.com/role/disclosureoperatingsegmentsscheduleofsegmentreportinginformationbysegmentdetails1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse4falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Display Technologies Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_2010447http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseDisplay Technologies Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_DisplayTechnologiesOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170Unit13Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDUSD$5falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Display Technologies Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20096322http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseDisplay Technologies Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_DisplayTechnologiesOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$6falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Display Technologies Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2008 - 12/31/2008 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2008_To_12_31_200822335333http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2008-01-01T00:00:002008-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseDisplay Technologies Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_DisplayTechnologiesOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseDisplay Technologies Operating Segment [Member]8false0us-gaap_SalesRevenueGoodsNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse30110000003011falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse24260000002426falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse27240000002724falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAggregate revenue during the period from the sale of goods in the normal course of business, after deducting returns, allowances and discounts.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 1 -Article 5 falsefalseNet sales9false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationDepreciationExpenseus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse513000000513[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse479000000479[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse407000000407[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of depreciation expense for the reportable segment. Information should be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph e falsefalseDepreciation10false0glw_ResearchDevelopmentAndEngineeringExpensesglwfalsedebitdurationThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the...falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse9000000090[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse8100000081[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse109000000109[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the hope that such knowledge will be useful in developing a new product or service, a new process or technique, or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process; or (2) to translate research findings or other knowledge into a plan or design for a new product or process or for a significant improvement to an existing product or process whether intended for sale or the entity's use, during the reporting period charged to research and development projects, including the costs of developing computer software up to the point in time of achieving technological feasibility, and costs allocated in accounting for a business combination to in-process projects deemed to have no alternative future use. Also included are the engineering expenses that are incurred while working on new product design, capacity, optimization programs, etc for products that are not currently being produced.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseResearch, development and engineering expenses11false0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalselabel1truefalsefalse-324000000-324[3]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse3100000031falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate amount provided for estimated restructuring charges, remediation costs, and asset impairment loss during an accounting period. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both (in which case they would be extraordinary items).No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRestructuring, impairment and other charges credits12false0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestmentsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse14520000001452[4]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse11020000001102falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse916000000916[4]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. Such amount typically reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements, including adjustments to eliminate intercompany gains and losses, and to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between cost and underlying equity in net assets of the investee at the date of investment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 19 -Subparagraph c Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Paragraph 11 -Article 7 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 9 -Article 5 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph b falsefalseCorning's equity in earnings of Samsung Corning Precision13false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse-618000000-618falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-279000000-279falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse-205000000-205falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of income tax expense or benefit attributed to the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph h falsefalseIncome tax (provision) benefit14false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationProfitLossus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse29900000002990[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse19920000001992[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse22210000002221[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of profit or loss recognized by the reportable segment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 falsefalseNet income (loss)15false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationInvestmentInEquityMethodInvesteesus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse27660000002766falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse26180000002618falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse18190000001819falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of investment in an equity method investee of the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the determination of segment assets reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in the determination of segment assets.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph a falsefalseInvestment in affiliated companies, at equity16false0us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse91380000009138[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse86990000008699[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse79020000007902[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net change during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of assets used to generate operating income.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 falsefalseSegment assets17false0us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromProductiveAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse497000000497falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse552000000552falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse14310000001431falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net cash inflow (outflow) from purchases, sales and disposals of property, plant and equipment and other productive assets, including intangibles.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 15 falsefalseCapital expenditures18false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.corning.com/role/disclosureoperatingsegmentsscheduleofsegmentreportinginformationbysegmentdetails1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse7falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Telecommunications Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_201022225http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseTelecommunications Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_TelecommunicationsOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170Unit13Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDUSD$8falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Telecommunications Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20096326http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseTelecommunications Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_TelecommunicationsOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$9falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Telecommunications Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2008 - 12/31/2008 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2008_To_12_31_200822335344http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2008-01-01T00:00:002008-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseTelecommunications Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_TelecommunicationsOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTelecommunications Operating Segment [Member]19false0us-gaap_SalesRevenueGoodsNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse17120000001712falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse16770000001677falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse17990000001799falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAggregate revenue during the period from the sale of goods in the normal course of business, after deducting returns, allowances and discounts.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 1 -Article 5 falsefalseNet sales20false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationDepreciationExpenseus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse118000000118[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse130000000130[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse117000000117[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of depreciation expense for the reportable segment. Information should be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph e falsefalseDepreciation21false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationAmortizationExpenseus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse10000001falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1000000010falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1100000011falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of amortization expense for the reportable segment. Information should be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph e falsefalseAmortization of purchased intangibles22false0glw_ResearchDevelopmentAndEngineeringExpensesglwfalsedebitdurationThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the...falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse115000000115[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse9400000094[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse9300000093[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the hope that such knowledge will be useful in developing a new product or service, a new process or technique, or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process; or (2) to translate research findings or other knowledge into a plan or design for a new product or process or for a significant improvement to an existing product or process whether intended for sale or the entity's use, during the reporting period charged to research and development projects, including the costs of developing computer software up to the point in time of achieving technological feasibility, and costs allocated in accounting for a business combination to in-process projects deemed to have no alternative future use. Also included are the engineering expenses that are incurred while working on new product design, capacity, optimization programs, etc for products that are not currently being produced.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseResearch, development and engineering expenses23false0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalselabel1truefalsefalse-3000000-3[3]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse4200000042falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1700000017[3]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate amount provided for estimated restructuring charges, remediation costs, and asset impairment loss during an accounting period. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both (in which case they would be extraordinary items).No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRestructuring, impairment and other charges credits24false0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestmentsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse30000003[4]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-3000000-3falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. Such amount typically reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements, including adjustments to eliminate intercompany gains and losses, and to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between cost and underlying equity in net assets of the investee at the date of investment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 19 -Subparagraph c Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Paragraph 11 -Article 7 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 9 -Article 5 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph b falsefalseCorning's equity in earnings of Samsung Corning Precision25false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse-46000000-46falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-19000000-19falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse-14000000-14falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of income tax expense or benefit attributed to the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph h falsefalseIncome tax (provision) benefit26false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationProfitLossus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse9700000097[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1900000019[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse4500000045[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of profit or loss recognized by the reportable segment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 falsefalseNet income (loss)27false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationInvestmentInEquityMethodInvesteesus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse1900000019falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1800000018falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1800000018falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of investment in an equity method investee of the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the determination of segment assets reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in the determination of segment assets.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph a falsefalseInvestment in affiliated companies, at equity28false0us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse988000000988[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse967000000967[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse10880000001088[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net change during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of assets used to generate operating income.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 falsefalseSegment assets29false0us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromProductiveAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse6900000069falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse6500000065falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse9100000091falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net cash inflow (outflow) from purchases, sales and disposals of property, plant and equipment and other productive assets, including intangibles.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 15 falsefalseCapital expenditures30false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.corning.com/role/disclosureoperatingsegmentsscheduleofsegmentreportinginformationbysegmentdetails1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse10falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Environmental Technologies Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_201022222http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseEnvironmental Technologies Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_EnvironmentalTechnologiesOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170Unit13Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDUSD$11falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Environmental Technologies Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20096323http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseEnvironmental Technologies Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_EnvironmentalTechnologiesOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$12falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Environmental Technologies Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2008 - 12/31/2008 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2008_To_12_31_200822335334http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2008-01-01T00:00:002008-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseEnvironmental Technologies Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_EnvironmentalTechnologiesOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseEnvironmental Technologies Operating Segment [Member]31false0us-gaap_SalesRevenueGoodsNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse816000000816falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse590000000590falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse711000000711falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAggregate revenue during the period from the sale of goods in the normal course of business, after deducting returns, allowances and discounts.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 1 -Article 5 falsefalseNet sales32false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationDepreciationExpenseus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse105000000105[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse9800000098[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse9500000095[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of depreciation expense for the reportable segment. Information should be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph e falsefalseDepreciation33false0glw_ResearchDevelopmentAndEngineeringExpensesglwfalsedebitdurationThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the...falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse9600000096[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse107000000107[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse125000000125[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the hope that such knowledge will be useful in developing a new product or service, a new process or technique, or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process; or (2) to translate research findings or other knowledge into a plan or design for a new product or process or for a significant improvement to an existing product or process whether intended for sale or the entity's use, during the reporting period charged to research and development projects, including the costs of developing computer software up to the point in time of achieving technological feasibility, and costs allocated in accounting for a business combination to in-process projects deemed to have no alternative future use. Also included are the engineering expenses that are incurred while working on new product design, capacity, optimization programs, etc for products that are not currently being produced.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseResearch, development and engineering expenses34false0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse2800000028falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate amount provided for estimated restructuring charges, remediation costs, and asset impairment loss during an accounting period. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both (in which case they would be extraordinary items).No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRestructuring, impairment and other charges credits35false0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestmentsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse50000005[4]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse70000007falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse40000004[4]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. Such amount typically reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements, including adjustments to eliminate intercompany gains and losses, and to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between cost and underlying equity in net assets of the investee at the date of investment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 19 -Subparagraph c Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Paragraph 11 -Article 7 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 9 -Article 5 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph b falsefalseCorning's equity in earnings of Samsung Corning Precision36false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse-20000000-20falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse2400000024falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse-11000000-11falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of income tax expense or benefit attributed to the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph h falsefalseIncome tax (provision) benefit37false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationProfitLossus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse4200000042[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-42000000-42[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse3300000033[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of profit or loss recognized by the reportable segment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 falsefalseNet income (loss)38false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationInvestmentInEquityMethodInvesteesus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse3400000034falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse3400000034falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse3700000037falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of investment in an equity method investee of the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the determination of segment assets reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in the determination of segment assets.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph a falsefalseInvestment in affiliated companies, at equity39false0us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse915000000915[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse874000000874[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse911000000911[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net change during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of assets used to generate operating income.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 falsefalseSegment assets40false0us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromProductiveAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse6500000065falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse5100000051falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse155000000155falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net cash inflow (outflow) from purchases, sales and disposals of property, plant and equipment and other productive assets, including intangibles.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 15 falsefalseCapital expenditures41false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.corning.com/role/disclosureoperatingsegmentsscheduleofsegmentreportinginformationbysegmentdetails1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse13falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Specialty Materials Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_201022224http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseSpecialty Materials Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_SpecialtyMaterialsOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170Unit13Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDUSD$14falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Specialty Materials Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20096325http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseSpecialty Materials Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_SpecialtyMaterialsOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$15falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Specialty Materials Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2008 - 12/31/2008 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2008_To_12_31_200822335343http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2008-01-01T00:00:002008-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseSpecialty Materials Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_SpecialtyMaterialsOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseSpecialty Materials Operating Segment [Member]42false0us-gaap_SalesRevenueGoodsNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse578000000578falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse331000000331falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse372000000372falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAggregate revenue during the period from the sale of goods in the normal course of business, after deducting returns, allowances and discounts.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 1 -Article 5 falsefalseNet sales43false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationDepreciationExpenseus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse7200000072[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse4600000046[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse3600000036[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of depreciation expense for the reportable segment. Information should be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph e falsefalseDepreciation44false0glw_ResearchDevelopmentAndEngineeringExpensesglwfalsedebitdurationThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the...falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse8700000087[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse5800000058[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse4500000045[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the hope that such knowledge will be useful in developing a new product or service, a new process or technique, or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process; or (2) to translate research findings or other knowledge into a plan or design for a new product or process or for a significant improvement to an existing product or process whether intended for sale or the entity's use, during the reporting period charged to research and development projects, including the costs of developing computer software up to the point in time of achieving technological feasibility, and costs allocated in accounting for a business combination to in-process projects deemed to have no alternative future use. Also included are the engineering expenses that are incurred while working on new product design, capacity, optimization programs, etc for products that are not currently being produced.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseResearch, development and engineering expenses45false0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalselabel1truefalsefalse-2000000-2[3]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1700000017falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse20000002[3]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate amount provided for estimated restructuring charges, remediation costs, and asset impairment loss during an accounting period. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both (in which case they would be extraordinary items).No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRestructuring, impairment and other charges credits46false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse1300000013falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse2800000028falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of income tax expense or benefit attributed to the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph h falsefalseIncome tax (provision) benefit47false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationProfitLossus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse-27000000-27[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-54000000-54[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse-7000000-7[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of profit or loss recognized by the reportable segment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 falsefalseNet income (loss)48false0us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse869000000869[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse319000000319[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse297000000297[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net change during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of assets used to generate operating income.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 falsefalseSegment assets49false0us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromProductiveAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse143000000143falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse3300000033falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse3700000037falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net cash inflow (outflow) from purchases, sales and disposals of property, plant and equipment and other productive assets, including intangibles.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 15 falsefalseCapital expenditures50false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.corning.com/role/disclosureoperatingsegmentsscheduleofsegmentreportinginformationbysegmentdetails1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse16falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Life Sciences Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_201022223http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLife Sciences Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_LifeSciencesOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170Unit13Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/instancepurexbrli0USDUSD$17falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Life Sciences Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20096324http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLife Sciences Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_LifeSciencesOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$18falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Life Sciences Operating Segment [Member] 1/1/2008 - 12/31/2008 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2008_To_12_31_200822335342http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2008-01-01T00:00:002008-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseLife Sciences Operating Segment [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_LifeSciencesOperatingSegmentMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseLife Sciences Operating Segment [Member]51false0us-gaap_SalesRevenueGoodsNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse508000000508falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse366000000366falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse326000000326falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAggregate revenue during the period from the sale of goods in the normal course of business, after deducting returns, allowances and discounts.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 1 -Article 5 falsefalseNet sales52false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationDepreciationExpenseus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse3200000032[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse2000000020[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1400000014[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of depreciation expense for the reportable segment. Information should be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph e falsefalseDepreciation53false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationAmortizationExpenseus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse70000007falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of amortization expense for the reportable segment. Information should be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph e falsefalseAmortization of purchased intangibles54false0glw_ResearchDevelopmentAndEngineeringExpensesglwfalsedebitdurationThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the...falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse1600000016[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1200000012[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse80000008[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the hope that such knowledge will be useful in developing a new product or service, a new process or technique, or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process; or (2) to translate research findings or other knowledge into a plan or design for a new product or process or for a significant improvement to an existing product or process whether intended for sale or the entity's use, during the reporting period charged to research and development projects, including the costs of developing computer software up to the point in time of achieving technological feasibility, and costs allocated in accounting for a business combination to in-process projects deemed to have no alternative future use. Also included are the engineering expenses that are incurred while working on new product design, capacity, optimization programs, etc for products that are not currently being produced.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseResearch, development and engineering expenses55false0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse80000008falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate amount provided for estimated restructuring charges, remediation costs, and asset impairment loss during an accounting period. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both (in which case they would be extraordinary items).No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRestructuring, impairment and other charges credits56false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse-30000000-30falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-19000000-19falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse-9000000-9falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of income tax expense or benefit attributed to the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph h falsefalseIncome tax (provision) benefit57false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationProfitLossus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse6000000060[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse3900000039[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse5300000053[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of profit or loss recognized by the reportable segment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 falsefalseNet income (loss)58false0us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse302000000302[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse229000000229[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse140000000140[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net change during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of assets used to generate operating income.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 falsefalseSegment assets59false0us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromProductiveAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse3100000031falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse2600000026falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1600000016falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net cash inflow (outflow) from purchases, sales and disposals of property, plant and equipment and other productive assets, including intangibles.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 15 falsefalseCapital expenditures60false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.corning.com/role/disclosureoperatingsegmentsscheduleofsegmentreportinginformationbysegmentdetails1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse19falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : All Other Operating Segments [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_20104222http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseAll Other Operating Segments [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_AllOtherOperatingSegmentsMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$20falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : All Other Operating Segments [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20096321http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseAll Other Operating Segments [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_AllOtherOperatingSegmentsMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$21falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : All Other Operating Segments [Member] 1/1/2008 - 12/31/2008 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2008_To_12_31_2008223358http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2008-01-01T00:00:002008-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseAll Other Operating Segments [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_AllOtherOperatingSegmentsMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseAll Other Operating Segments [Member]61false0us-gaap_SalesRevenueGoodsNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse70000007falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse50000005falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1600000016falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAggregate revenue during the period from the sale of goods in the normal course of business, after deducting returns, allowances and discounts.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 1 -Article 5 falsefalseNet sales62false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationDepreciationExpenseus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse1200000012[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1300000013[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1200000012[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of depreciation expense for the reportable segment. Information should be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph e falsefalseDepreciation63false0glw_ResearchDevelopmentAndEngineeringExpensesglwfalsedebitdurationThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the...falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse114000000114[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse125000000125[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse163000000163[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the hope that such knowledge will be useful in developing a new product or service, a new process or technique, or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process; or (2) to translate research findings or other knowledge into a plan or design for a new product or process or for a significant improvement to an existing product or process whether intended for sale or the entity's use, during the reporting period charged to research and development projects, including the costs of developing computer software up to the point in time of achieving technological feasibility, and costs allocated in accounting for a business combination to in-process projects deemed to have no alternative future use. Also included are the engineering expenses that are incurred while working on new product design, capacity, optimization programs, etc for products that are not currently being produced.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseResearch, development and engineering expenses64false0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalselabel1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse40000004falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate amount provided for estimated restructuring charges, remediation costs, and asset impairment loss during an accounting period. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both (in which case they would be extraordinary items).No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRestructuring, impairment and other charges credits65false0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestmentsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse4500000045[4]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse3200000032falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse5600000056[4]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. Such amount typically reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements, including adjustments to eliminate intercompany gains and losses, and to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between cost and underlying equity in net assets of the investee at the date of investment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 19 -Subparagraph c Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Paragraph 11 -Article 7 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 9 -Article 5 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph b falsefalseCorning's equity in earnings of Samsung Corning Precision66false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse5000000050falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse4500000045falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse-3000000-3falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of income tax expense or benefit attributed to the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph h falsefalseIncome tax (provision) benefit67false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationProfitLossus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse-75000000-75[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-80000000-80[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse-168000000-168[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of profit or loss recognized by the reportable segment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 falsefalseNet income (loss)68false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationInvestmentInEquityMethodInvesteesus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse238000000238falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse206000000206falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse202000000202falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of investment in an equity method investee of the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the determination of segment assets reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in the determination of segment assets.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph a falsefalseInvestment in affiliated companies, at equity69false0us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse240000000240[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse206000000206[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse202000000202[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net change during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of assets used to generate operating income.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 falsefalseSegment assets70false0us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromProductiveAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse4300000043falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1400000014falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse3500000035falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net cash inflow (outflow) from purchases, sales and disposals of property, plant and equipment and other productive assets, including intangibles.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 15 falsefalseCapital expenditures71false0natruenanaNo definition available.falsetruefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsehttp://www.corning.com/role/disclosureoperatingsegmentsscheduleofsegmentreportinginformationbysegmentdetails1falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3falsefalsefalse00falsefalsefalsefalsefalse22falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Total Segment Reporting [Member] 1/1/2010 - 12/31/2010 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2010_To_12_31_2010223http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2010-01-01T00:00:002010-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseTotal Segment Reporting [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_TotalSegmentReportingMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$23falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Total Segment Reporting [Member] 1/1/2009 - 12/31/2009 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2009_To_12_31_20096327http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2009-01-01T00:00:002009-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseTotal Segment Reporting [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_TotalSegmentReportingMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$24falsefalseUSDtruefalse{us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxis} : Total Segment Reporting [Member] 1/1/2008 - 12/31/2008 USD ($) $Duration_1_1_2008_To_12_31_200822335345http://www.sec.gov/CIK0000024741duration2008-01-01T00:00:002008-12-31T00:00:00falsefalseTotal Segment Reporting [Member]us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisxbrldihttp://xbrl.org/2006/xbrldiglw_TotalSegmentReportingMemberus-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationBySegmentAxisexplicitMemberUnit12Standardhttp://www.xbrl.org/2003/iso4217USDiso42170USDUSD$OthernaNo definition available.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseTotal Segment Reporting [Member]72false0us-gaap_SalesRevenueGoodsNetus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse66320000006632falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse53950000005395falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse59480000005948falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAggregate revenue during the period from the sale of goods in the normal course of business, after deducting returns, allowances and discounts.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 1 -Article 5 falsefalseNet sales73false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationDepreciationExpenseus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse852000000852[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse786000000786[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse681000000681[1]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of depreciation expense for the reportable segment. Information should be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph e falsefalseDepreciation74false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationAmortizationExpenseus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse80000008falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1000000010falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1100000011falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of amortization expense for the reportable segment. Information should be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph e falsefalseAmortization of purchased intangibles75false0glw_ResearchDevelopmentAndEngineeringExpensesglwfalsedebitdurationThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the...falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalse1truefalsefalse518000000518[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse477000000477[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse543000000543[2]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate costs incurred (1) in a planned search or critical investigation aimed at discovery of new knowledge with the hope that such knowledge will be useful in developing a new product or service, a new process or technique, or in bringing about a significant improvement to an existing product or process; or (2) to translate research findings or other knowledge into a plan or design for a new product or process or for a significant improvement to an existing product or process whether intended for sale or the entity's use, during the reporting period charged to research and development projects, including the costs of developing computer software up to the point in time of achieving technological feasibility, and costs allocated in accounting for a business combination to in-process projects deemed to have no alternative future use. Also included are the engineering expenses that are incurred while working on new product design, capacity, optimization programs, etc for products that are not currently being produced.No authoritative reference available.falsefalseResearch, development and engineering expenses76false0us-gaap_RestructuringSettlementAndImpairmentProvisionsus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalselabel1truefalsefalse-329000000-329[3]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse130000000130falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1900000019[3]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe aggregate amount provided for estimated restructuring charges, remediation costs, and asset impairment loss during an accounting period. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both (in which case they would be extraordinary items).No authoritative reference available.falsefalseRestructuring, impairment and other charges credits77false0us-gaap_IncomeLossFromEquityMethodInvestmentsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse15050000001505[4]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse11380000001138falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse976000000976[4]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThis item represents the entity's proportionate share for the period of the net income (loss) of its investee (such as unconsolidated subsidiaries and joint ventures) to which the equity method of accounting is applied. Such amount typically reflects adjustments similar to those made in preparing consolidated statements, including adjustments to eliminate intercompany gains and losses, and to amortize, if appropriate, any difference between cost and underlying equity in net assets of the investee at the date of investment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 19 -Subparagraph c Reference 2: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 04 -Paragraph 11 -Article 7 Reference 3: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 Reference 4: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher SEC -Name Regulation S-X (SX) -Number 210 -Section 03 -Paragraph 9 -Article 5 Reference 5: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher AICPA -Name Accounting Principles Board Opinion (APB) -Number 18 -Paragraph 6 -Subparagraph b falsefalseCorning's equity in earnings of Samsung Corning Precision78false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationIncomeTaxExpenseBenefitus-gaaptruedebitdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse-651000000-651falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse-220000000-220falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse-242000000-242falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of income tax expense or benefit attributed to the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the measure of segment profit or loss reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in that measure of segment profit or lossReference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 -Subparagraph h falsefalseIncome tax (provision) benefit79false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationProfitLossus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse30870000003087[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse18740000001874[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse21770000002177[5]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of profit or loss recognized by the reportable segment.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 27 falsefalseNet income (loss)80false0us-gaap_SegmentReportingInformationInvestmentInEquityMethodInvesteesus-gaaptruedebitinstantNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse30570000003057falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse28760000002876falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse20760000002076falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryAmount of investment in an equity method investee of the reportable segment. Must be disclosed if the amount (a) is included in the determination of segment assets reviewed by the chief operating decision maker or (b) is otherwise regularly provided to the chief operating decision maker, even if not included in the determination of segment assets.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 131 -Paragraph 28 -Subparagraph a falsefalseInvestment in affiliated companies, at equity81false0us-gaap_IncreaseDecreaseInOperatingAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseterselabel1truefalsefalse1245200000012452[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse1129400000011294[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse1054000000010540[6]falsefalsefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net change during the reporting period in the aggregate amount of assets used to generate operating income.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 28 falsefalseSegment assets82false0us-gaap_PaymentsForProceedsFromProductiveAssetsus-gaaptruecreditdurationNo definition available.falsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalsefalseverboselabel1truefalsefalse848000000848falsetruefalsefalsefalse2truefalsefalse741000000741falsetruefalsefalsefalse3truefalsefalse17650000001765falsetruefalsefalsefalseMonetaryxbrli:monetaryItemTypemonetaryThe net cash inflow (outflow) from purchases, sales and disposals of property, plant and equipment and other productive assets, including intangibles.Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef -Publisher FASB -Name Statement of Financial Accounting Standard (FAS) -Number 95 -Paragraph 15 falsefalseCapital expenditures1Depreciation expense for Corning's reportable segments includes an allocation of depreciation of corporate property not specifically identifiable to a segment. 2Research, development, and engineering expenses include direct project spending that is identifiable to a segment. 3In 2010, Corning recorded a $324 million on the settlement of business interruption and property damage insurance claims in the Display Technologies segment resulting from earthquake activity near the Shizuoka, Japan facility and a power disruption at the Taichung, Taiwan facility in 2009. In 2008, restructuring, impairment and other charges and (credits) include a charge of $22 million that was primarily comprised of severance costs for a restructuring plan in the Telecommunications segment. 4In 2010, equity in earnings of affiliated companies in the Display Technologies segment included a $61 million credit for our share of a revised Samsung Corning Precision tax holiday calculation agreed to by the Korean National Tax service. 5Many of Corning's administrative and staff functions are performed on a centralized basis. Where practicable, Corning charges these expenses to segments based upon the extent to which each business uses a centralized function. Other staff functions, such as corporate finance, human resources and legal are allocated to segments, primarily as a percentage of sales. In 2008, net income (loss) included a $12 million litigation settlement in the Display Technologies segment and a $14 million loss on the sale of a business in the All Other segment. 6Segment assets include inventory, accounts receivable, property and associated equity companies and cost investments. 381Operating Segments (Schedule of Segment Reporting Information by Segment) (Details) (USD $)MillionsUnKnownUnKnownUnKnownfalsetrue