There’s a religious app for that! A framework for studying religious mobile applications

Abstract

This article provides a new methodological approach to studying religious-oriented mobile applications available on the iTunes app store. Through an extensive review of 451 religious apps a number of problems were noted when relying solely on iTunes categories to identify app functions and purpose. Thus further analysis was done in order to present a new typology and framing of religious apps, which more accurately describe their design. We suggest that the 11 new categories offered here suggest a critical framework for studying religious apps. Thus this study provides a starting point for scholars interested in analyzing religious mobile applications to investigate how app developers integrate religious goals into their designs, and consider the primary ways people are expected to practice religion through mobile apps.

A multi-method exploration: The use of mobile spiritual applications amongst older adults

“…As one of mobile technology devices, the larger dimension of tablet PC compared to smartphone and smaller than laptop was recognized as the privileged device for older adults [27]. Furthermore, Quran Bahasa Melayu application with Malay translations of Quran was used for this study due to this kind of sacred textual engagement apps was the most downloaded and common for Muslim as apps oriented around religious practice classification [1].…”

“…al. [1] shows that religious apps were typically designed related to religious practices or religious information and beliefs. Meanwhile, spirituality and religion have been found to play an important part in many older people's lives.…”

“…Aligned with motivation for using technology, mobile devices could also be used for mobile spiritual applications [1], to support older adults pursuing independent lifestyles [2,3]. The worldwide phenomenon of religious technologies is also known as technospiritual [4].…”

Determinants of Online Religious Service Acceptance: An Empirical Investigation

“…Scholars have recognized individuals and communities from various religions increasingly use new media, including websites, social media, and apps for religious purposes [3]. Previous studies have considered the importance of religious experience on consumer behaviors [8].…”

“…Research results show that more young people seem to come into contact with religion via the Internet than through local religious communities [2]. The Internet is transforming the religious environment, creating new challenges and opportunities [3], [4]. On the other hand, the Internet provides the opportunity for temples to reach a wider audience and create compelling value propositions never before possible.…”