Localization File Formats

Localizing software involves using different file formats to store and manage the translations. Each format has its own unique features and is suited to specific platforms.

TLDR: All you really need to know is that Texta supports importing and exporting of all these formats. Making it possible to use your copy across any platform you might choose to build your product.

JSON

Platform: Web and Cross-Platform

Overview: JSON (JavaScript Object Notation) is a lightweight data interchange format commonly used for web applications and various cross-platform frameworks. JSON files are composed of key-value pairs and are easy to read and write.

Unique Features:

Human-Readable: Simple syntax that is easy for humans to read and write.
Language Agnostic: Can be used across different programming languages and platforms.
Lightweight: Minimal syntax makes it efficient for data exchange.

Example:

{ "welcome_message": "Welcome" }

XML

Platform: Android

Overview: XML (Extensible Markup Language) is the standard format for localizing Android applications. XML files are structured with tags that define different elements, making them highly organized and easy to parse.

Unique Features:

Hierarchical Structure: Supports nested elements, which is useful for organizing complex data.
Attributes: Can include attributes within tags to provide additional information.
Extensive Use: Widely used beyond localization, making it versatile for developers.

Example:

<resources> <string name="welcome_message">Welcome</string> </resources>

String Catalog

Platform: Apple's Xcode

Overview: String Catalogs (or .xcstrings) are used in Apple's Xcode for localizing iOS and macOS applications. This format supports more advanced localization features, such as plurals and rich text.

Unique Features:

Advanced Localization: Supports complex localization needs, including pluralization and gender-specific translations.
Structured Interface: Integrated with Xcode's interface, making it easier for developers to manage localization.
Rich Text Support: Can handle rich text formatting, providing more flexibility in how text appears in the app.

Example:

<strings> <string id="welcome_message"> <value>Welcome</value> </string> </strings>

Strings File

Platform: Apple iOS and macOS

Overview: The .strings file format is primarily used for localizing apps on Apple's iOS and macOS platforms. These files store key-value pairs where each key corresponds to a specific piece of text in the application, and the value is the translated string.

Unique Features:

Simple Structure: Easy to read and write with plain text format.
UTF-16 Encoding: Typically encoded in UTF-16, supporting a wide range of characters.

Example:

"welcome_message" = "Welcome";

Conclusion

Each localization file format has its own strengths and is tailored to specific platforms. Whether you're developing for iOS with .strings files, Android with XML, web applications with JSON, or using String Catalogs in Xcode, understanding the unique features of each format will help you choose the best one for your project.

Texta supports importing and exporting of all these formats. Making it possible to use your copy across any platform you might choose to build your product.

Get Texta

Get Texta