App localization helps apps cater to more than 6 billion smartphone users in this day and age, but it isn’t an easy task. It is its complexity that makes it harder to adopt for apps and there are quite just a number that have been localized. And there is even a smaller number of apps that have been successfully localized. App localization without 100% efficiency is just a waste of time and money. The role of software translation services is important here but you need to understand that translation is just a part of app localization. So you don’t need to totally rely on it.
You need to target more than just translation. UX/UI features, technicalities, maintaining the app’s update along with localization and so much more than that. So you can say that app localization is a bundle of work that can be done by experts and skilled personnels only.
Why Do You Even Need App Localization?
Of course, app localization is needed to localize an app so that it suits the requirements of a specific market. The benefits of app localization are manifold. First of all, it enhances user engagement and retention by providing content in the native language of the target audience. This caters to a sense of familiarity for the target audiences and they are more tempted to utilize localized apps. Even research backs up this information that users are more likely to engage with apps that are available in their native language. This further leads to increased rates of downloads.
If we talk about the market aspect, then app localization expands market reach and revenue potential. You might not know this but localized apps generate high revenue and have a greater competitive edge over non-localized apps. So now you know what you need? Get app localization services and let’s get going with the localization of your mobile app.
If we talk about examples then “Candy Crush” and “Clash of Clans” are the most common and evident examples of the fact that localization does take your app to greater download rates and later substantial revenue growth.
Decoding the Complexity of App Localization
Now let’s talk about the complex part of app localization that makes it a tricky process. One of the things that makes it a tricky process is the fact that it is a costly process. Most of the time apps are translated to reduce costs but guess what that doesn’t make your app welcomed in foreign markets. Now if you want international success, of course, you have to focus on the complex and tricky parts. So let’s see these complexities for ourselves.
The UX/UI Enigma
So we know that successful and effective app localization goes beyond the work of a translation company. This is because app localization deals with the entire user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design of the app. This refers to adapting graphics, layout, icons, and color to align with cultural preferences and sensitivities. For example, Airbnb redesigned its website and app interface to appeal to Japanese users. It incorporated minimalist design elements and even tailored its navigation according to the Japanese audience’s culture.
English interfaces are built for left-to-right reading. So languages whose layout goes from right-to-left require a rethink of the entire UIs.
Talking About the Technical Part
Technical aspects include text encoding, software compatibility, and character support. From the developers’ side, it is to make sure that the app’s codebase supports multilingual content and also can handle text in various scripts, fonts, and layout designs. Other than that, optimizing performance and minimizing loading times across different language versions are essential for delivering a seamless user experience. So yes app localization is a complex and intricate process.
Testing and Balancing Efficiency
Testing is the part that makes sure that your app is completely localized and now it can function properly in your target market. It identifies as well as solves localization issues before the app goes global. This testing process includes accurate translation, usability testing to assess user experience and interface design, and functional testing to verify app functionality across languages and devices. One other thing that developers can use for this testing process is automated localization testing tools and crowdsourced testing platforms. They can streamline the testing process and improve the efficiency of the app.
Keeping Up With the Updates – Maintaining Localization
Apps keep evolving with new updates and features. Now it is the task of localization to maintain features along with the updates. Any changes to the interface or content by the app itself must be readily reflected across all localized versions to ensure consistency and coherence.
Final Words!
To sum up, we can say that app localization is a multifaceted process that requires careful planning, execution, and ongoing maintenance. By understanding the complexities involved and adopting best practices, developers can create engaging and inclusive experiences for users worldwide, driving growth and success in global markets.
