Definition
Internationalization
Internationalization (i18n) is the technical process of designing your app to support multiple languages and regions without requiring engineering changes for each locale.
Internationalization (often abbreviated i18n) is the engineering foundation that makes localization possible. It involves separating text from code, supporting multiple character sets, handling right-to-left layouts, and adapting to regional formatting standards.
Proper internationalization means you can add new languages without modifying your codebase. This makes scaling to new markets fast and cost-effective.
Once internationalized, translate your metadata instantly with AppDrift.
Related Terms
Localization
Localization is the process of adapting your app and its store listing for specific regional markets, including translation, cultural adaptation, and local keyword optimization.
RTL Languages
RTL (Right-to-Left) languages like Arabic, Hebrew, and Persian require special layout considerations. Supporting RTL increases your addressable market by hundreds of millions of users.
Locale
A locale is a specific combination of language and region (e.g., en-US, pt-BR, zh-TW) that determines how your app metadata is displayed in a particular market.
Further Reading
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