iPod helps compare global currency markets

The Commonwealth Bank in Australia has used Apple's second-generation iPod nano to compare global currencies and purchasing power in 26 different countries, according to one report. A CommSec iPod Index based on January 2007 prices compared Apple's 2GB second-generation iPod nano in U.S. dollars to the cost in other countries, revealing that Brazilians pay the most for the 2GB player ($327.71) while Canadians pay the least ($144.20). The U.S. is the fourth cheapest country in which to purchase a 2GB 2G Nano ($149), but even China -- the country where the iPods are manufactured -- charges a hefty $179.84 for the aluminum players, according to eWeek. Hong Kong and Japan lead the U.S. with $147.35 and $147.63 for each iPod, respectively.

A comprehensive list of all 26 countries follows, ordered from most to least expensive:

1. Brazil $327.71
2. India $222.27
3. Sweden $213.03
4. Denmark $208.25
5. Belgium $205.81
6. France $205.80
7. Finland $205.80
8. Ireland $205.79
9. UK $195.04
10. Austria $192.86
11. Netherlands $192.86
12. Spain $192.86
13. Italy $192.86
14. Germany $192.46
15. China $179.84
16. South Korea $176.17
17. Switzerland $175.59
18. New Zealand $172.53
19. Australia $172.36
20. Taiwan $164.88
21. Singapore $161.25
22. Mexico $154.46
23. U.S. $149.00
24. Japan $147.63
25. Hong Kong $147.35
26. Canada $144.20

Filed under: iPod