Devout use apps to track prayer time, eateries

alQuran and Quran MP3 are applications for Android devices. “They allow users to read the religious texts, its translations and commentary in various languages. One can even listen to verse-by-verse recitation — the reading is clear and the voices are really beautiful,” shared a user of the latter. “Such apps are fantastic for beginners, who can learn the surahs of Holy Quran by-heart. I listen to it every day on my way to work because it helps me relax,” he added.

Some of the apps don’t need an internet connection to function. “If I’m reading the Holy Quran, I can just swipe right or left to the next or previous chapter. The translated English version is available too and I don’t need an internet connection to use it, which makes it accessible anywhere,” said TA Mohammed, an entrepreneur.

Shahnaz Ahmed, 22, said she was looking to install an app on her father’s phone that alerts him on the azan. “That’s when I came across Muslim Pro – Ramadan. It also has a Qibla (direction that points towards the Ka’abah in Mecca) locator and helps find restaurants in my vicinity that serve Halal,” she explained.