Hey there!

Today, we’re tackling a common pain point: big dreams, tight budgets, and the world of app localization. It’s 2024, and the digital landscape is more vibrant than ever. According to Statista (https://www.statista.com/statistics/330695/number-of-smartphone-users-worldwide/), with over 6.4 billion smartphone users globally in 2022, a number forecasted to exceed 7.7 billion by 2028, the potential to reach a diverse audience through app localization is staggering. But how do you do this with limited resources? I’ve got some fresh insights and practical tips to share.

Mobile Internet

Mobile internet usage isn’t just growing; it’s reshaping how we connect. With a significant portion of web traffic coming from mobile devices, localizing your app isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a must to engage users worldwide. For instance, in regions like Southeast Asia and Africa, internet access is predominantly mobile, making localized mobile content critically important.

Smart Localization

Got limited resources? No problem. Start with localizing key use scenarios of the app interface and terms of use. Providing a localized app market description can also set you apart from the competitors.

Machine Translation + Human Touch = Magic

Try combining machine translation with human postediting. This approach ensures your app resonates linguistically and culturally and is more affordable than professional human translation services. Take Duolingo as an example, which uses a mix of machine translation and human review to create its language courses, offering adequate accuracy and cultural relevance.

Testing the Waters

If you’re exploring a new market, partial localization is a smart way to gauge audience response without a hefty investment. This approach allows you to measure user engagement and make informed decisions about further localization efforts.

With strategic planning and focusing on what’s essential, you can make your app a global sensation, even on a shoestring budget.