What is app localisation?

It is the process of translating an app, adapted for a specific geographic market. To do this successfully, it is important to take into account not only linguistic, but also cultural and technical aspects.

Even for apps aimed at a particular group of users who are mostly fluent in English, access to a version in their own language is always a key advantage.

Among other aspects, localisation achieves:

• Better usability and accessibility
• Greater cultural relevance and resonance
• Increased brand loyalty
• More user participation when it comes to providing feedback on the app in app repositories
• A high return on investment in the development of this type of app

The localisation of apps also allows you to take advantage of business opportunities in any country where they arise. By adapting the app to the local language and culture, you open up new market possibilities and reach broader audiences. In addition, localisation increases brand visibility and recognition worldwide.

App localisation process

A crucial first step is to carry out a market analysis and segment the global audience. Understanding the needs and characteristics of local users helps to adapt the app effectively. It is also vital to select the right target languages to maximise the impact and relevance of the app. As soon as the market analysis and languages are defined, you can proceed with the translation and localisation of texts, images and multimedia resources for the app. The translation must be accurate and culturally appropriate to ensure a smooth user experience. In addition, design aspects, such as the cultural adaptation of visual elements, colours and symbols, must be considered in order to ensure seamless integration and effective communication with each market.

The next step is to perform a thorough evaluation of the functionality and usability of the app. Rigorous tests are carried out to identify problems and the app is optimised by taking feedback from users and performance tests into account, thus ensuring a high-quality end product.

Finally, the localised version of the app must be made available in the app repositories of the corresponding operating system. In addition, key metrics are monitored constantly and user ratings and comments are collected, allowing for continuous improvement. This ensures a successful launch and the ability to adapt to changing user needs.

Recommendations and best practices for app localisation.

Get support from translation professionals specialised in apps.

It is essential to select translation and localisation service providers with experience in mobile app. At STAR, we have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively adapt your app, ensuring an accurate and consistent translation and a high-quality user experience in each target market.

Optimisation for multilingual ASO and SEO.

To achieve a good ASO (App Store Optimisation) ranking in app stores and SEO (Search Engine Optimisation) in search engines in different languages, strategies that adapt the content and keywords in each target language must be implemented. Factors such as meta tag optimisation, accessible URLs and other technical aspects should not be forgotten in order to ensure effective visibility in multilingual search results. How to appear in the top search positions on an international level.

Cultural adaptation and visual localisation.

It is essential to take into account the customs and cultural preferences of each target market. For example, in most cases, an app developed for France will require very little adaptation of this kind if it is localised to target the German or Italian market, which are culturally very close to France. However, to address markets that are culturally more distant, such as those in East Asia, it may be necessary to adapt images, colours and visual elements to the local audience.

Conclusions

In short, an appropriate localisation of mobile apps offers significant benefits, enables expansion into international markets and increases brand visibility. Taking the right steps in the process, from market research to launch, is key to successful and effective customisation for global users. At STAR, we can help you localise your app so that you achieve this at a lower cost and with a quicker turnaround time. Get in touch with us and we will be happy to answer any queries you may have.