From Google’s Ramadan Hub to Nokia and Windows announcing special apps, you can make this Ramadan even more special with some assistance from technology.
Hundreds of mobile applications spread across various platforms are reaching out to smartphone users proving them services ranging from accurate Prayer time, Qibla locator, Azan application, Zakat calculators, complete digital and audio editions of the Holy Quran and even nearby restaurants where you can break your fast.
iPhone and Android users have had special Ramadan apps for the past few years.
iPhone users can find about 500 free as well as paid apps on the iTunes store, offering almost every possible Ramadan related assistance including a complete offline version of the Holy Quran, various related books and audio and video editions of lectures by prominent scholars.
Google last week launched a new Hub combining various Ramadan related services on offer.
Hadi Raad, Head of Marketing, Emerging Arabia in his message introduced the new page for Ramadan 2013 that offered users suggestions on how to catch up with friends and family, live cook-along Hangouts with celebrity chefs, discover and watch videos on YouTube.
“You can also experience the atmosphere of Al-Masjid Al-Haram by tuning in to the ‘live’ stream from the Grand Mosque in Makkah, Saudi Arabia on the Saudi Ministry of Culture and Information's YouTube channel, also available directly on our new page,” the message said.
Google had last year introduced a special YouTube channel dedicated to sharing Islamic prayers ‘live’ from Makkah. Another YouTube channel offered 50 "premium Ramadan shows" on the same day that they aired.
Nokia Lumia too announced its own initiative launching a collection of Windows 8 Apps.
This year’s top new Nokia Windows Phone 8 Ramadan applications are feature packed, and include Ramadan Kareem, Quran Mojawed, Muslim Prayers, Essential Duas, and also Zomato which features a special iftar and suhoor section on their website.
Apps and web service aside, Muslims can now even opt for a prayer mat - physiological prayer mat - that promises to improve their well-being.
TimeZ5 is marketing the space-age physiological prayer mat, which it says ‘channels a physio-spiritual experience inspired by ancient medicine and the latest in technology’.
In lay terms, this prayer mat is said to relieve pressure on feet, heels, ankles, knees, hips and the lower back; whether the person is standing, bending, kneeling or prostrating resulting in a boost of energy and mental focus.
Boasting a five-layer design, the texture helps ease muscle pain or stiffness, joint aching or inflexibility, posture problems and low energy levels.
Nader Sabry, CEO and Founder of TimeZ5, said in a statement: “The mat’s purpose is to address lifestyle challenges for a healthier and more spiritually fulfilling life.”
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