Why Your App Store Language is Wrong and How to Fix It
Scenario: You've painstakingly translated your app into multiple languages, ready to conquer the global market. You upload your app to the App Store, but to your dismay, it's showing up in the wrong language! Frustrating, right? This common issue can stem from several factors, but thankfully, there are solutions.
Understanding the Problem:
The App Store determines the language displayed to users based on their device's language settings. If your app's metadata (like title, description, and keywords) is not properly configured for different languages, it might default to a language you didn't intend.
Let's break it down with an example:
// Example App Store metadata
{
"title": "My Awesome App",
"description": "A fantastic app for everyone!",
"keywords": "app, awesome, fun, useful",
// ... other metadata
}
In this example, the app title, description, and keywords are all in English. If a Spanish-speaking user visits the App Store, they will likely see the app displayed in English.
Here's how to fix it:
-
Localize Your Metadata:
- App Store Connect: Within Apple's App Store Connect portal, you'll find a section for "Languages". Select the languages you want your app to be displayed in.
- Provide Translations: Enter the translations for your app's title, description, keywords, and other metadata for each language.
- Review and Submit: Carefully review your translations and submit your changes.
-
Utilize Xcode's Localization Features:
- Create Localizations: Within your Xcode project, you can create localizations for different languages. This allows you to manage language-specific content like strings, images, and more.
- Use the
NSLocalizedStringfunction: This function allows you to dynamically display the correct language based on the user's device settings. For instance:
let welcomeMessage = NSLocalizedString("Welcome", comment: "Welcome message")
Additional Tips:
- Target Relevant Regions: When choosing languages for your app, consider the regions where you expect to have the most users.
- Use Localized Screenshots: Provide screenshots specific to each language to enhance the user experience and improve app discovery.
- Test Thoroughly: Before publishing your app, ensure that all languages are correctly displayed on different devices with various language settings.
Conclusion:
Ensuring your app is displayed in the correct language is crucial for reaching a global audience. By carefully localizing your app's metadata and utilizing Xcode's localization features, you can create a seamless experience for users across different regions.
Remember, a localized app not only improves discoverability but also shows your commitment to your international users, fostering trust and encouraging downloads.
