Android and iOS Mobile App Localization: Key Points

The companies and business owners interested in app localization usually have some questions in mind. Plus, it is important to consider the basics of the process you will be paying for. This material will give you the overall idea about the app localization and will cover the highlights associated with Android and iOS.

Mobile app localization refers to the process of changing the app in order to adapt it for a new target market/country/nationality. This is a complex task that requires the effort of an experienced team of specialists in such a field.

What Does a New User Expect from the App?

This is an important point to deal with since you need to think as a potential client. Well, here are the key points to keep in mind in connection with this:

• The app should be downloaded and installed fast and without any difficulty;
• It has to work without major lags and errors (ideally, they have to be absent at all);
• Everything given on the app should be clear and evident for a native speaker (this has to deal with the aspect of translating and adapting the original content);
• Users need to be able to see the prices and main info on the service/product.

Besides, it is good when there are two versions of the app, Android and iOS. This is explained by the fact that these two variants are widely used across the globe. Certainly, the share for specific devices can differ from one country to another.

Mobile App Localization: the Main Elements

The experienced team will take into account all of the crucial points. At the same time, quite a few business owners wonder what will be happening and what they will be charged for. This is what is usually localized when it comes to adapting the app to another market:

• All content presented in the original app. Plus, something can be added in accordance with the needs of a new audience;
• Layout. It is also vital to consider the peculiarities that may be crucial for a certain target market;
• Colors. There are cultures that are associated with special meanings for specific colors so it is important to keep this aspect in mind;
• Date and time formats. It is evident that they are different all across the globe.
• Currency and its denomination. 

There are some other points that are going to be identified and dealt with by the team of experts. Your key task is entrusting the work to the right company/agency.

Android vs iOS App Localization

It is very convenient when the users can get the app from Google Play, and this is something to strive for. Same thing refers to the App Store. As for the actual process of localization, there are no major differences in connection with the app version. The stages and steps are going to be pretty much identical.

However, the Android localization is tied to a resource-based approach (apps may have multiple resource files for locales). In the case of iOS, there is a file-based approach. The framework is more flexible for Android. iOS developers and experts usually have fewer options when it comes to customization.

Who Will Be Able to Help You in the Best Way Possible?

Finding a suitable team should be your top priority. You can receive poor results that will spoil the overall impression of potential clients in case the app is localized badly. Certainly, there is no sense in talking about the results and increased revenue in such a case. This is why it is essential to conduct some research to meet a team that will satisfy your needs. Here are a few features of a good company/agency performing software localization services:

1. They are eager to answer any of the questions you will have before the collaboration.
2. You see positive reviews from those who have already worked with these guys.
3. It is possible to request the cost of work and see what it comprises.
4. You are clearly instructed on the steps and can get the approximate time frames in connection with the stages of work.
5. The team has been working for a relevant time.

The last point is debatable since there may be new but good players in the market. However, long-term expertise is usually a sign of credibility. It is totally up to you what to stick to.

How Long Does It Take to Localize the App?

This depends on quite a few factors, to tell the truth. They are about to be listed below.

1. The overall complexity of the project. The more specific the industry is, the more time may be needed for the implementation of the ideas and making appropriate changes to the application.
2. The volume of content and number of features that have to be fit into the app. A relevant amount of stuff will be linked to making a lot of effort and spending a certain amount of time.
3. The expertise of the team. A more experienced company can provide you with faster results without sacrificing the quality of what you will get. 
4. Your goals and intentions. Having multiple aims and trying to reach them means that more time can be spent on app localization. 

What to Start With When Getting Ready to Localize the App?

First of all, you will need to clearly identify what you plan to achieve by means of localizing the app. Write this down, share it with the team, and be ready to present this info to the company you will be working with.

Then, you will need to find an appropriate team. Ideally, they will have an experience relevant to your field/area you are dealing with. You also need to decide how much you are ready to spend on localization and discuss it with the agency.

This is actually it. Make sure you are ready for the process both in terms of finances and future plans for business expansion before you make an appropriate request.