Samsung has announced a UV steriliser with wireless charging capabilities.
In a statement posted to Samsung Newsroom, the company notes the increased importance of personal hygiene in the wake of the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, and that the new sanitizing device is intended to “help combat the spread of bacteria and germs.” The device is intended as an extra measure, rather than a replacement for social distancing, face masks, and thorough personal hygiene and handwashing.
The device, which combines 10W wireless charging with UV-C sterilisation, has been verified by two independent bodies to kill 99% of all “bacteria and germs, including E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans” in 10 minutes. The magnetic cover provides an airtight closure, and the case is big enough to hold smartphones up to the Galaxy S20 Ultra. The case can also be used to sterilise ear buds and glasses.
There is no direct mention of novel coronavirus in the statement, and this is because there is still some uncertainty in the scientific community regarding UV’s ability to destroy Covid-19. It is “probably” the case that UV can destroy Covid-19 as it does kill other coronaviruses, according to the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, but further studies are needed before a consensus can be met.
Though the product has been announced globally there has been no confirmation regarding availability and pricing. The item page on the Samsung website is live, however, and as highlighted by The Verge, the steriliser is being sold in Germany for €58 (approximately £52).