The World Factbook review

The World Factbook offers a host of facts about every nation-state in the world. The data is compiled using information supplied by America’s impressive-sounding Central Intelligence Agency (CIA).

The number of facts this app offers, even for the most obscure countries, is mind-blowing. At the drop of a button you can pull up a wide range of statistics- population demographics, communication networks, transport infrastructures and economics, in addition to many others. Each country has its flag clearly displayed, alongside a brief but fascinating synopsis of its history and foundation.

Areas that are not defined as ‘countries’, such as oceans or deserts, can still be searched for, and have their own sets of statistics. The ownership of such areas is also explained.

Each country also has a longitude and latitude link. Click on this link and you’ll be taken to Google Maps, where you’re shown its location in the world.

An excellent feature of The World Factbook, which is very important considering the nature of its content, is that the app’s library can be updated directly, without having to download new software from the App Store– so the stats are always as accurate as possible.

We were very impressed by just how comprehensive the amount of information on offer is, regardless of the size of country or the number of inhabitants. You can get as many facts about Norfolk Island (pop.48), as you can about the United States. The flag browser is also quite interesting for those of us who ordinarily struggle to match up a country with its correct flag.

Our favourite feature is the statistics index, which allows you to select a country and a specific stat without having to scroll through pages and pages of information. This makes it very useful for quick-fire research, especially handy for those pub quiz situations.

There are very few drawbacks to this The World Factbook. However, unlike an encyclopaedia, it offers nothing beyond statistics, but if you are looking for quantitative information, it has everything covered.

At £0.59, The World Factbook does exactly what it professes to. Delving into it is fascinating, unless you’re afraid of statistics. Since it’s largely limited to figures, it will not offer much explanation for those who are not familiar with such information. If you’re looking to enhance your knowledge of the globe, it’s a good purchase.

The World Factbook info

Ease of use:
Value:
Features:
Overall

Platform: Apple iPhone

Price: 59p

Developer: jDictionary Mobile

Website/Demo: N/A

Buy the World Factbook from