Internacionalización

How to handle language and globalization in mobile applications?

In an increasingly globalized world, applications must be prepared to reach an international audience. This approach involves not only translating texts, but also adapting to the cultural and language particularities of users. Learn here how you can manage these complexities when developing a mobile application.

What is the importance of string files in globalization?

String files are essential for managing different languages in an application. When we develop a view in XML that contains text, instead of writing the text directly, we reference the string file using a specific ID. This way, if you decide to support another language, you only need to create a strings file for that language with the same IDs as the original file. Thus, the device's operating system displays the strings file that matches the user's language, allowing texts to automatically appear in the correct language.

• Advantages:
  • Facilitation of the translation and localization process.
  • Flexibility to add more languages in the future.
  • Consistency and ease of text maintenance.

How to handle cultural and regional differences?

Not only languages vary between regions, but also cultural and linguistic aspects. For example, Mexican Spanish differs from Spanish, as does Brazilian Portuguese from Portuguese. These cultural differences also apply to how information is presented.

Cultural considerations:

• Date and time formats: different regions may have varying formats; for example, the use of the 24-hour system versus the 12-hour system with AM/PM.
• Units of measurement: It is crucial to adapt the units (metric or imperial) to the user's location.
• Visual information dissemination: In some countries, reading is from right to left, instead of left to right.

How to implement RTL (Right to Left) support?

RTL support is essential for adapting to languages that read from right to left, such as Arabic or Hebrew. The key to doing this effectively is to use the terms "Start" and "End" instead of "Right" and "Left".

For example:

• Use layout_alignStart instead of layout_alignLeft.
• Define margins with marginStart and marginEnd.

The system will interpret these instructions according to the user's language, positioning the content correctly and ensuring that the interface is intuitive for everyone.

What do you think about internationalization strategies?

Internet users are invited to share their experiences with applications that do not comply with internationalization standards or that offer particular features according to language and region. But above all, it is essential to keep learning and adapting our applications to offer inclusive and well-tailored experiences for each user. Keep exploring and sharing your discoveries!