5 reasons why Apple’s App Store optimization (ASO) strategy must include iOS App Localization

The iOS App Store is more crowded than ever. With more than 2 million apps vying for user attention, simply having a solid product is no longer enough. You need to stand out, and that’s where ASO (App Store Optimization) comes in. But there’s a secret weapon many developers overlook: iOS app localization.

The simple yet game-changing truth is this: People prefer to browse the App Store in their native language, and localized apps receive more positive reviews. If you want to boost your app’s visibility, the time to invest in iOS app localization is now.

This blog will walk you through why iOS app localization is a must for your ASO strategy. We’ll cover facts, real-world case studies, and 5 reasons why iOS app localization is non-negotiable for those who want to take their app global. Let’s dive in. 

5 Reasons Why iOS App Localization Is Non-Negotiable

iOS app localization is more than just translating your app’s text. It includes adapting your keywords, descriptions, visuals, and metadata to different languages and cultural contexts. This strategy is crucial for giving your app the international advantage it deserves. Below are the top 5 reasons why your Apple Store Optimization (ASO) strategy must include iOS app localization. 

1. iOS App Localization Boosts Organic Reach and Rankings

Wider Audience, Better Visibility

According to a survey by Distimo, a week after publishing an iPhone app in a new language, downloads in that country increased by 128%. Why such a drastic jump? Because by tailoring your app listing and keywords to a local market, you align more closely with how people in that market search. This alignment helps your app rank higher in local results, leading to more organic downloads.

Credibility in Local Markets

Steve P. Young, an ASO expert at Appmaster, reports his clients have seen up to a 10X increase in downloads after localizing their apps. When users see that your app is available in their native tongue, it instantly gives your brand extra credibility. This credibility feeds back into higher retention and improved ratings—which, in turn, boost your overall ranking in the App Store.

2. iOS App Localization Leads to Higher Conversion Rates

Conversion Isn’t Just About Keywords

Yes, keywords are vital. But once users land on your app’s product page, the localized description, screenshots, and video previews have to close the deal. If your app store listing is in a language your potential users don’t speak, they’ll likely bounce back to the search results.

Building a Human Connection

Remember, people buy from brands they trust. If your app listing includes localized visuals and culturally relevant references, your message is far more compelling. A well-localized product page can make users feel “this app is made for me.” That feeling will drive your conversion rates through the roof.

3. iOS App Localization Improves User Retention

A Personalized User Experience

User retention begins the moment a new user opens your app. If your interface, notifications, and user support are offered in the user’s primary language, they’re more likely to stick around. When an app feels familiar and easy to navigate, user satisfaction goes up. And satisfied users are more likely to become loyal customers.

Positive Reviews Spur Growth

Users are more inclined to leave positive reviews if they can easily understand and navigate your app. Great reviews not only help your visibility in the App Store algorithm, but they also inspire confidence in new users who discover your app. Research from Alchemer shows 79% of customers check reviews before downloading an app. Another win for your ASO. 

4. iOS App Localization Enhances Global Reputation and Trust

A Worldwide Audience

As of 2024, over 65% of downloads on the App Store start with a search. When you localize your app, you’re essentially creating multiple doorways for different audiences to find you. The net effect is a bump in global reputation—users around the world see you as a company that cares about their specific needs.

5. iOS App Localization Increases Revenue Opportunities

Unlocking New Markets

Localization opens new revenue channels by enabling your app to resonate in countries you might never have considered before. The global potential is enormous, especially given that people spend an average of 4.8 hours daily on apps, offering ample opportunities to engage new users.

From in-app purchases to premium feature upgrades, a localized app that accommodates various cultural norms and payment preferences has a stronger likelihood of success. Localization efforts should focus on both language translation and cultural adaptation—making sure your content, visuals, and even pricing structures make sense for each local market.

Case Study #1: How Coin Splash Increased Global Downloads by 101% via iOS App Localization 

Coin Splash is a free mobile game where players build virtual coin empires by spinning wheels, attacking other villages, and team up with friends on Facebook. Its fun, social nature makes it a prime candidate for global success—if it reaches the right audiences.

The Challenge

Coin Splash, a new player in the casual gaming space, needed a robust app marketing strategy to improve its US market presence and also grow internationally.

Localized Metadata for Six Main Geos
Knowing they needed to localize to grow, ASO specialists adapted Coin Splash’s metadata into four languages (English, French, Italian, and German), targeting the US, UK, Canada, France, Italy, and Germany. In countries like Canada, multiple languages were used to capture different segments of the population.

The Results

• 101% increase in global downloads in just 40 days.
• 67% overall increase in local countries.

By localizing its core app store listing and doubling efforts in paid channels to amplify organic ASO gains, Coin Splash reached its primary goal: boosting organic search traffic in the US and improving global visibility.

Case Study #2: Headspace’s 40% Growth in Visibility Through Localization

Headspace is a leading meditation and mindfulness app with millions of users worldwide. Despite already having 6 million users, Headspace wanted to dominate its category globally.

The Strategy

Headspace conducted an ASO audit and a 6-month campaign involving ongoing keyword optimization and professional iOS app localization. This multi-phase approach ensured Headspace remained competitive in non-English niche markets.

The Results

• 40% increase in app visibility
• 18% increase in installs via search
• 8% increase in Click-View-Rate of local store listings
• 40% more installs via search in key, non-English markets

Localization played a significant role in Headspace’s global reach, proving that meticulous cultural adaptation and consistent keyword experimentation can substantially grow an app’s user base.

Is Localization Too Expensive & Time Consuming?

It’s true that localization requires resources—translators, cultural consultants, and perhaps new design elements for each language. But the return on investment can be monumental. By making your app accessible to a broader audience, you set the stage for exponential growth in downloads and revenue.

Additionally, modern localization platforms and AI-powered tools significantly cut costs and speed up turnaround times. This not only ensures high-quality translations but also allows smaller teams to compete with bigger players in global markets.

For example, OneSky Localization Agent (OLA) helps reduce costs and turnaround times while ensuring high-quality translations. Instead of handling everything manually, you can leverage AI-driven processes to achieve professional, culturally adapted results faster than ever.

Ready to take your app global and reap the rewards of iOS app localization?

OneSky provides end-to-end localization solutions — covering translations, cultural adaptation, and optimization for different app store markets. With streamlined workflows, high-quality translations, fast turnaround times, and proven expertise, we can help you achieve 10x increases in your number of downloads right now.

Want to expand your reach and maximize downloads across the globe? Partner with OneSky and unlock your app’s global potential.