IOS Localization

iOS Localization & Assets

Priority: P1 (HIGH)

Implementation Workflow

1. Use String Catalogs — Adopt .stringcatalog files in Xcode 15+ for visual editing and compile-time missing translation checks.
2. Prefer modern APIs — Use String(localized: "key") or LocalizedStringResource instead of NSLocalizedString.
3. Handle pluralization — Use String Catalogs' built-in pluralization instead of custom code logic.
4. Format with locale — Use Formatted API for dates, numbers, and currencies to respect user locale.
5. Organize assets — Use .xcassets with "Provides Namespace" enabled. Prefer SF Symbols for standard icons.
6. Complete Base localization — Ensure Base complete before adding other languages.

See localization and asset catalog examples

Anti-Patterns

• No Manual Currency Formatting: Use NumberFormatter or .formatted(.currency)
• No Loose Asset Files: Always use Asset Catalogs (.xcassets)
• No Placeholder Strings: Ensure 100% translation coverage before commit

References

• L10n & Asset Organization

Canonical response anchors

When this skill applies, preserve the following domain terminology or equivalent concrete examples in the answer when relevant:

• Native Implementation,implementation
• String(localized: "key")