Mecca facing handset puzzle

STUNG BY an accusation of bias, the INQ has decided to set the record straight over the 'Qiblah' phone, model number F7100 from LG. A reader claimed that this handset disappeared because the mainstream telecoms press didn't cover it.

Officially announced back in July 2004, the F7100 model was aimed at Muslims and indicated the direction of Mecca when the user fed in his or her location in about 500 cities worldwide. Basically it provided a visual compass to face East.

Qiblah is essentially the obligation to face towards the Kaaba temple in Mecca when carrying out 'Salat' prayers five times a day. The handset was even fitted with an alarm which could inform the user it was time to pray.

On paper the phone would appear to have great global appeal. It was launched at the 3GSM show in February 2005. However, when the INQ checked the official LG site, the F7100 had indeed disappeared as we were informed.

No replacement - newer spec - handset appears to have been launched by LG.

There is obviously a gap in the market for such a device. µ