New Cellphone Services Put God on the Line

“That cellphones — despite their tiny screens — should be a window into the soul should come as no surprise, experts say. Along with all their practical functions, experts say cellphones and the services that go with them are increasingly being used by consumers to assert their identities. Users customize their units with ring tones, covers and wallpaper to reflect their individual tastes.”
The upshot is that religious leaders are looking for mobile handsets and services that fulfill the needs of their religion — in the first example given in the story of “kosher” phones that’s handsets that make phone calls and nothing else. Even SMS is forbidden, but it’s not explained why. There’s also details of mobile services aimed at Muslims (such as alerts for prayer times) and Christians (ringtones etc).
“Good News also is planning to launch a branded phone this summer in conjunction with six ministries across the country, which will provide subscribers sermons, news, movie reviews and other content. Good News originally thought of calling it the “godphone,” but thought better of it and named it the FaithMobile phone instead.” Wise move, what with the various interpretations of taking His name in vain…

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