The market study suggests that more than 75% of consumers tend to buy from the platforms of their native language. Meaning if the potential customers are unable to read/understand the language of your apps there are increased chances that they won’t buy from you. Consequently, you might be missing your revenue if your mobile apps is not localized for different languages and cultures.
Furthermore, if you are planning to localize your apps you are at the right place. Let’s learn the importance of mobile localization and then explore the key tips for optimizing your mobile app localization process.
Benefits of Mobile App Localization
App localization is the process of carefully tailoring the app according to the preferences and languages of the specific regions. For example, the payment method one uses in the USA might not necessarily work in Japan. Moreover, localization and customization of apps not only draw more attention from diverse communities but also increase the global reach and user base of your app.
Furthermore, it is essential to know that translation is one big part of the broad and time-consuming process of localization. In fact, localization includes the overall evaluation of the app and its customizable functionalities for specific regions, cultures, and marketing preferences. Additionally, worldwide app store optimization (ASO) is also crucial for the localization of the app descriptions. Numbers suggest that apps with efficient ASO rank 128% better and are responsible for 26% more revenue.
Key Tips for Mobile App Localization
Consider Consumer Persona and Prioritize Your Target Regions
It is recommended that you narrow down your product/services according to the most used languages on the internet. This table indicates the 5 most used languages and the percentage of their speakers.
| Language | Percentage |
| English | 25.30% |
| Chinese | 10.80% |
| Spanish | 8.00% |
| Arabic | 4.80% |
| Portuguese | 4.10% |
Acquire the Services of a Certified Translation Service Provider
There is no question about the importance and effectiveness of AI tools like Google Translate, etc. Moreover, it is very important to know that these tools are no substitute for human translations. A translator with industry-leading expertise can make the content resonate more with the target audience than any other AI tool.
However, it is crucial to know that even a single language of French as a target region involves many language variations. Poor translations might disappoint the readers. A professional translator can help you mitigate these issues and also assist you in maintaining the credibility of the services.
Test the Mobile Apps According to the Native Users and the Target Language
Comprehensive beta testing can assist you in finding issues and bugs during the developmental phase of the App. A free tip is to include the localization testing in your beta testing programs. Localization testing refers to the testing of the functionality and other frameworks of the app and its compliance with different languages.
Consider the Cultural Differences
Cultural differences can create huge differences in the user experience. Furthermore, there is an increased possibility that one thing is considered safe in one culture but perceived as offensive in another. For example, the use of the word “love” in marketing is considered appropriate in many countries. However, the Chinese considered it offensive and you cannot use this word while marketing to Chinese audiences.
It is very important to hire a professional mobile localization expert to analyze the images, videos, music, and emojis text, and optimize them according to the cultural and linguistic preferences of the target audience.
Look for Term Base Productivity Tools
There are dozens of LSPs available in the market. For getting the best mobile localization services, always look for those platforms that are aligned with the latest CAT tools. It tells a lot about their preferences and technological approaches towards their professional localization services.
Enquire about Your Professional Translation Service Provider
After ensuring that your mobile app is ready for the localization process, it is important to verify the capabilities of the translation service providers. Check the automation capabilities of your professional localization services provider. Make sure that the translation service provider uses the over-the-air OTA system for communication, especially for software updates, configuration, settings, etc.
Select a Method for Your Mobile App Localization
These are the different ways through which mobile app localization can be completed.
Mobile software development Kits (Mobile SDK) + Translation Service Provider
In the case of mobile localization, the translation service provider’s mobile SDK can translate the new content (text strings) without submitting the app.
API & Connector Integration + Translation Service Provider
Via integration, connectors or APIs can enable the translation service providers to communicate intelligently.
Manual + Translation Service Provider
Translations can be added manually to mobile apps. It is a simple yet time-consuming method. Manual processes can experience delays because of the resubmission of the mobile apps.
Conclusion
The number of mobile apps users is increasing day by day. Furthermore, brands have launched apps for shopping, banking, health, and finance services internationally. The main intent of this globalization trend is to compete in foreign markets and attract more buyers. That is why localization enables the apps to connect with potential customers in their native language and ultimately increase sales and ROI.
Read More: Revolutionize Your Business with Cutting-Edge Mobile App Development Strategies
