Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen addressed the issue of using modern methods for determining prayer times and the Qiblah. He affirmed that these methods are permissible and often necessary in the modern era.

For prayer times, the basis is the observable signs related to the sun's position as described in the Sunnah: the true dawn for Fajr, the sun passing its zenith for Dhuhr, the length of an object's shadow for Asr, the sunset for Maghrib, and the disappearance of the twilight for Isha. However, since it is impractical for most urban dwellers to personally observe these signs, Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen permitted relying on printed prayer timetables. He placed a strong condition that these schedules must be produced by a reliable, trustworthy source known for accuracy in calculating the times according to the prescribed shar'i signs. If one is in a location like a desert where direct observation is possible, that should be preferred.

Similarly, regarding the Qiblah, the obligation is to face the direction of the Kaaba. While past generations used the stars or the sun, modern instruments offer greater precision. Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen permitted and encouraged the use of a compass and other modern scientific instruments to determine the exact direction of the Qiblah. He viewed these tools as a blessing from Allah that facilitates the fulfillment of religious duties.

The underlying principle is that a Muslim must do their best to ascertain the correct times and direction using the most reliable means available. If one exercises due diligence (taharri) with a trusted calendar or a reliable compass or application, their prayer is considered valid, even if a minor, unknown error is later discovered.