*While on the toilet, one must remain silent. Talking, answering greetings or greeting others is strongly discouraged.[4]

Haha I was gonna mention that. I'm still not sure if this counts -- probably does. I'll consult a scholar. Because there are similar things which are allowed under Islam. For instance, a Muslim is advised (not commanded) to make ablutions before picking up the Qur'an. But I have a Qur'an app on my phone which made me wonder if I was supposed to make ablutions before opening the app. A scholar of Islam told me that I'm not. He quoted a ruling which reasoned that the purpose of a mobile phone is not just reading the Qur'an; which is also comparable to a book containing Quranic verse - you don't have to be in a state of purity before picking up that book.

> I'm still not sure if this counts -- probably does.

Why do you think it does not count?

Maybe because while reading you're not required to open your mouth and physically speak. That's just my reasoning. Islamic rulings are based on the Qur'an and the Traditions of the Prophet (pbuh). There are about a million traditions on a variety of topics. The scholars keep them in mind while giving a ruling. So, I'm in no position to give a ruling on this. A Google search on the topic tells you that it's not, but none of the answers are satisfying for me so I think I'll have to visit a scholar and ask him/her.

I was about to comment this, nice link! I did not know it was advised to face away from qiblah.