Company
Date Published
Author
Hady ElHady
Word count
3004
Language
English
Hacker News points
None

Summary

Mobile app localization is a crucial strategy for developers and marketers aiming to expand their app's reach and increase revenue by customizing content for different languages and regions. This process, which significantly boosts app downloads and revenue as evidenced by studies like Distomo's, involves translating not only the app's text but also adapting images, videos, and other elements to fit local contexts. Localization differs from internationalization, which prepares the app's code for multiple languages, and should precede localization efforts. Before localizing, market research is essential to identify target languages and regions, considering factors such as user demographics, app analytics, and competitor activities. Effective localization also requires professional translators and translation management systems to ensure quality and cultural relevance. Post-localization, testing with native speakers is vital to ensure accuracy, followed by a strategic release and marketing in new regions. Continuous updates and user feedback are necessary to maintain localized versions as the app evolves.