Quick Information
Version
1.0.0
Latest Update
October 15, 2025
Requires
iOS 26.0 or later
System Requirements
Important: Big Mac Index requires iOS 26.0 or later to take advantage of the latest Liquid Glass design features. Please ensure your device is updated to the latest iOS version.
- iOS Version: iOS 26.0 or later
- Compatible Devices: iPhone and iPad
- Storage: Approximately 50 MB
- Internet: Not required (all data works offline)
- Language: English
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Big Mac Index?
The Big Mac Index was invented by The Economist in 1986 as a lighthearted guide to whether currencies are at their "correct" level. It is based on the theory of purchasing-power parity (PPP), which suggests that exchange rates should adjust to equalize the price of identical goods and services in different countries. The index compares the price of a Big Mac burger across countries to determine if currencies are overvalued or undervalued.
Is this app affiliated with The Economist or McDonald's?
No. Big Mac Index is an independent application created by Lado Tatishvili. While the app uses publicly available Big Mac Index data originally published by The Economist, it is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to The Economist, McDonald's Corporation, or any related entities.
Do I need an internet connection to use the app?
No! All Big Mac Index data is embedded in the app and works completely offline. Once you download the app, you can use all features without an internet connection. The app does not make any network requests.
How often is the data updated?
The Big Mac Index data is published periodically by The Economist, typically twice a year. When new data is released, we update the app with the latest information. App updates with new data will be available through the App Store.
Does the app collect my personal data?
No! Big Mac Index is designed with privacy first. We do not collect, store, or transmit any personal information. All app preferences are stored locally on your device. See our Privacy Policy for complete details.
How do I interpret the valuation percentages?
Undervalued (Negative %): The currency is cheaper than it should be relative to the US dollar. This means better purchasing power for USD holders.
Overvalued (Positive %): The currency is more expensive than it should be relative to the US dollar. This means lower purchasing power for USD holders.
At Parity (±10%): The currency is fairly valued relative to the US dollar.
Overvalued (Positive %): The currency is more expensive than it should be relative to the US dollar. This means lower purchasing power for USD holders.
At Parity (±10%): The currency is fairly valued relative to the US dollar.
Can I use this data for investment decisions?
The Big Mac Index is designed as a lighthearted guide and educational tool. While it provides interesting insights into currency valuations, it should not be used as the sole basis for financial or investment decisions. Always consult with qualified financial advisors before making investment decisions. See our Terms of Service for complete disclaimers.
What is the GDP-adjusted index?
The GDP-adjusted index takes into account differences in GDP per person between countries. This provides a more nuanced view of currency valuation by considering that average prices should be lower in poor countries than in rich ones because labor costs are lower.
How many countries are included?
The app includes data for 60+ countries from around the world, covering major economies and regions. The specific countries included may vary based on data availability from The Economist's Big Mac Index.
Can I compare multiple countries?
Yes! The app includes a Comparison feature that allows you to compare up to 4 countries side-by-side. Navigate to the "Compare" tab and select the countries you want to analyze.
How do I view historical data?
There are two ways to view historical data:
1. Country Details: Tap any country to see its price history with interactive charts
2. Timeline: Go to More → Timeline to view all countries at a specific date in the past
1. Country Details: Tap any country to see its price history with interactive charts
2. Timeline: Go to More → Timeline to view all countries at a specific date in the past
Why isn't my country included?
The app displays data based on The Economist's Big Mac Index. Not all countries are included because McDonald's doesn't operate in every country, or sufficient pricing data isn't available. We can only include countries that are part of The Economist's published index.
The app won't install or open. What should I do?
Please ensure you meet the system requirements (iOS 26.0 or later). If you're still having trouble:
1. Restart your device
2. Check for iOS updates in Settings → General → Software Update
3. Ensure you have sufficient storage space
4. Try deleting and reinstalling the app
If problems persist, contact support at ladotatishvili@proton.me
1. Restart your device
2. Check for iOS updates in Settings → General → Software Update
3. Ensure you have sufficient storage space
4. Try deleting and reinstalling the app
If problems persist, contact support at ladotatishvili@proton.me
How do I search for a specific country?
Go to the "Countries" tab and use the search bar at the top. You can search by country name, currency code (like USD, EUR), or ISO code. The list updates in real-time as you type.
Can I export the data?
Currently, the app is designed for viewing and analyzing data within the app. Data export features are not available in the current version but may be considered for future updates.
Is there an Android version?
Currently, Big Mac Index is only available for iOS devices (iPhone and iPad). There are no immediate plans for an Android version, but we may consider it based on user demand.
Troubleshooting
App Performance Issues
- Ensure you're running the latest version of the app
- Check that your device has iOS 26.0 or later
- Close other apps to free up memory
- Restart your device
- Ensure you have at least 100 MB of free storage
Visual Display Issues
- The app uses iOS 26's Liquid Glass design system, which requires iOS 26.0 or later
- If you have "Reduce Transparency" enabled in Accessibility settings, some glass effects will be simplified
- Check Display & Brightness settings if colors appear incorrect
Data Not Displaying
- The app works completely offline - no internet connection is needed
- If you see empty screens, try force-closing and reopening the app
- Ensure the app installation completed successfully
- Try reinstalling the app if data appears corrupted
Feature Requests & Feedback
We value your feedback! If you have suggestions for new features or improvements, please contact us at ladotatishvili@proton.me. While we can't implement every request, we carefully consider all feedback for future updates.
Potential Future Features
Based on user interest, we're considering:
- Additional currency comparisons beyond the major currencies
- More detailed economic indicators
- Customizable country watchlists
- Widget support for iOS home screen
- Data export capabilities