Square has teamed up with mobile case maker Griffin Technology to launch a new Merchant case for the iPhone 5 and 5s ahead of the Consumer Electronics Show. The case is optimized to fit a Square Reader while simultaneously providing protection for the iPhone it is connected to.

The silicone case features a groove in the bottom that aligns perfectly with the Square Reader which is said to help guide cards to a frictionless, consistent swipe. This design also helps to eliminate swivel and excess strain on the iPhone's headphone jack.The side of the case is tapered for a solid grip when a customer needs to add their signature and when the Reader isn't in use, it can be conveniently stored in the back of the case.

The product joins Stand, a separate Square accessory released early last year for the iPad. As the name suggests, Stand is essentially a stand for the iPad that transforms it into a card-swiping register.

It's not the most stylish smartphone case we've seen but above all else, it looks to be functional. The Merchant case includes a Square Reader and is available to order as of writing for $19.99. Griffin says current orders will ship within two weeks.

Square also launched Works with Square, a new program that allows developers to build accessories for Square businesses.

No word yet on whether or not Square / Griffin are planning a similar case for Android handsets.