Vatican launches new 'eRosary' bracelet to attract tech-savvy worshippers

The Vatican has unveiled an eRosary bracelet in the hope of attracting a new generation of tech-savvy youngsters to the Catholic church.

The gadget, which costs £85 ($109), can be worn on the wrist and is activated by making the sign of a cross.

It connects to Click to Pray - the pope's official prayer app - where worshipers can connect with others and even visit Pope Francis personal profile.

A Vatican news spokesman said: "This project brings together the best of the church's spiritual tradition and the latest advances of the technological world.

"When activated, the user has the possibility to choose either to pray the standard rosary, a contemplative rosary and different kinds of thematic rosaries that will be updated every year."

The device is made up of 10 black agate and haematite beads, plus a metal cross that detects movement.

It has a similar aesthetic to the traditional rosary - a prayer aid used since the 13th century - but consists of one decade rather than a whole circuit, so wearers can slip it comfortably over their hand without it falling off.

Taiwan-based tech company GadgTek Inc developed the gadget, which is water-resistant and compatible with Android and iOS smartphones.

According to the BBC this is not the first time the Catholic Church has attempted to attract young people with technology

In 2018, a Catholic evangelical group launched "Follow JC Go!", a Christian take on the hugely successful Pokemon Go gaming app.

It let players "catch" saints or Bible characters, instead of monster characters.