How do you localize and support multilingual mobile apps?

1 Choose the right platform

Depending on your target platforms, you may have different options and tools for localization and multilingual support. For example, Android and iOS provide built-in frameworks and resources for managing multiple languages, such as string files, locale identifiers, and language preferences. Other platforms, such as React Native or Flutter, may require additional libraries or plugins to achieve the same functionality. You should research the capabilities and limitations of your chosen platform before starting the localization process.

2 Separate content and code

One of the key principles of localization is to separate content and code as much as possible. Content refers to any text, images, audio, or video that your app displays to the user. Code refers to any logic, functionality, or configuration that your app uses internally. By separating content and code, you can easily update, translate, and maintain your app without affecting its performance or functionality. You should store your content in external files or databases, and use variables, placeholders, or keys to reference them in your code.

4 Support right-to-left languages

Some languages, such as Arabic, Hebrew, Persian, and Urdu, are written and read from right to left (RTL). If you want to support these languages in your app, you need to make sure that your app layout and design can adapt to the RTL direction. For example, you should use auto layout or flexible layout techniques that can adjust the alignment, spacing, and order of your UI elements based on the language direction. You should also use icons, images, and animations that can flip or mirror for RTL languages. You should test your app with RTL languages to ensure that it works correctly and consistently.

5 Test and debug your app

The final step of localization and multilingual support is to test and debug your app with different languages and regions. You should use both automated and manual testing methods to check your app for any errors, bugs, or issues related to localization. For example, you should use unit tests, integration tests, and UI tests to verify that your app logic, functionality, and appearance are correct for each locale. You should also use emulators, simulators, or real devices to test your app with different language settings, screen sizes, and orientations. You should fix any problems that you find and improve your app quality and user experience.