Your Cellphone Screen Could Soon Fight Germs

Germaphobes, rejoice: the makers of Gorilla Glass, the super-strong screen atop smartphones, have incorporated an antimicrobial chemical into the new iteration of the product, Corning officials announced Monday.

"As touch technologies proliferate, consumers are becoming aware of how bacteria can exist on mobile devices, particularly as we increasingly share touch-enabled surfaces at home, work and elsewhere," a news release on the company's website said.

"To help address this growing concern, Corning has developed Antimicrobial Corning Gorilla Glass."

An ionic silver compound used in the glass works to inhibit the growth of bacteria, including algae, fungi, mold, and mildew, reportedly is better than disinfectant wipes. Corning said it's the first such product registered by the Environmental Protection Agency, Business Insider reports.

"Antibacterial wipes, foams, sprays and films exist today, but they are temporary, and many device manufacturers advise against them," the news release says. "The chemicals infused within this cover will not degrade over time and work continuously to remove germs from your touch screen."

The product was unveiled at the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.