Prepare Your App for App Localisation
What is app localisation?
App localisation involves adapting an app’s user interface and functionality for different target markets. It’s not just simple translation; it means tailoring every aspect of the app to suit the cultural, linguistic and technical requirements of each specific market. It’s about more than language; it’s creating an authentic user experience that resonates with the target audience.
Key questions about preparing for app localisation:
Localisation or translation? Translation transfers textual content from one language to another, but app localisation ensures all the app’s elements, such as UI components, features, in-app copy, graphics and app store descriptions are adapted to match users’ cultural preferences and expectations.
What types of mobile app localisation are there? Minimum viable localisation is a bare-bones localisation that includes translating essential elements like menus, buttons, and basic instructions. Full app localisation is a comprehensive adaptation of the entire app, including UI, features, content and payment methods to cater to specific markets.
Why should you localise your app? App store descriptions in the local language often have an impressive effect on download rates. Localisation also expands your market share, leading to increased revenue streams as you enter new countries.
What are the challenges in app localisation? If localisation takes longer than expected there can be unforeseen delays and extra costs; ensuring across-the-board quality in many languages can be tough; and the localisation must keep up with updates to the app.
Some tips for app localisation: Structure your app for localisation; consider adapting the layout and design elements; translate in-app text; customise the graphics to local tastes; get your localised content verified; and optimise the metadata for each market.
What you’re looking to create is an inclusive and engaging experience for users worldwide
Why can’t you do the app localisation yourself?
You might be tempted into taking the DIY route, but be aware that it comes with several drawbacks:
- Delivering consistent multi-language quality is difficult without professional expertise.
- It could mean inconsistencies and an adverse effect on user trust and satisfaction.
- App localisation is time-consuming and diverts resources from core development tasks.
- Because languages have nuances, idioms and context-specific meanings, attempting app localisation without the requisite linguistic expertise runs the risk of misinterpretations or clumsy translations.
- Understanding cultural sensitivity is vital to avoid upsetting or offending users; professional localisation services always consider cultural context.
- Self-localised metadata may have a detrimental effect on app store visibility, whereas an expert app localisation company understands app store optimisation.
- Maintaining localised content can become complex as your app evolves, whereas professional app localisation providers offer continuous support.
Self-localisation is possible, but collaborating with a multi-lingual translation and transcription service provider of localisation services ensures a streamlined and more effective process and an optimal user experience.
Why use a multi-lingual translation and transcription service provider for app localisation?
- A professional app localisation company elevates the user experience by adapting the app’s content and interface to the language and cultural preferences of the target market.
- Translating all text-related elements in the user interface ensures users can navigate the app with ease, which brings better engagement and satisfaction.
- The premium localisation services of scientific and technical experts TW Languages take your app to markets that would otherwise remain inaccessible, with users able to access content in their preferred languages. With app localisation, you cater to non-English speakers and reach a wider audience.
- Users are more likely to make purchases or subscribe to services in their native language, so professional app localisation can boost growth.
What are some other benefits of app localisation?
- When your app is more widely available across multiple languages, you also open yourself up to partnerships with international affiliates and influencers. The feasibility of such tie-ups is enhanced when advances in communication brush aside language barriers.
- Localised apps are more likely to appear in app store searches for specific regions, and better visibility means more downloads and exposure to potential users.
- By extending your global footprint, you create new revenue streams and increase sales.
Partnering with TW Languages, a multi-lingual translation and transcription service provider, can ensure your app will resonate with diverse audiences, deliver positive user experiences and drive business growth and revenue.
TW Languages’ mission is to continue to grow the business and use our passion and desire to ensure every translation is of the highest quality and delivered on time. In doing this, we are committed to working with our clients in supporting them to achieve their global strategy. Our vision is to continue to develop and extend our services globally which we can do by working together as a collective.
Contact Us
Use the contact form to discover what TW Languages and its UK localisation services team can do for you and your app.
You can also contact us at our UK-based head office by calling +44 (0)161 826 8777.
Or send an email to info@twlanguages.com
