Webflow recently unveiled new features for its localization tools. These tools now allow users to create and maintain multilingual websites more easily. One of the most important new features is the ability to translate texts and content into the desired languages directly in the Webflow interface. Webflow does the translation using artificial intelligence.
Another innovative function allows the content to be individually adapted to the respective localization variant of the website. As a result, the user experience can be optimized for different language groups and the usability of the website can be increased. For example, a Spanish website may display different images than the corresponding German version.
Webflow's Localization Features
Automatic translation via AI
Webflow Localization's automatic translation feature allows you to publish a website in multiple languages without having to manually translate every word. A combination of machine translation and human review guarantees accurate and understandable content.
Update 15.12.2023: Page today, it is possible to have CMS items completely translated with one click. Here is more about this Localization update.
SEO optimization
Web localization also helps with search engine optimization (SEO). Content is translated in such a way that it can also be understood by search engines. In addition, separate meta tags and descriptions can be defined for each language to increase visibility in search results.
Setting language preferences
Webflow makes it easy to customize the preferred language for the website. Users can select the language they want, and Webflow automatically translates the website.
Customizable URL structures
Webflow provides customizable URL structures for every language to improve SEO optimization for multilingual websites.
Disadvantages of Webflow Localization
- no option for custom footer & header code
- Only limited ability to adjust the language selection
- There are only 5 language variants available. Although Webflow Enterprise offers more variants, it is extremely expensive.
- no way to import existing translations or URL slugs
- It is not yet possible to host the language variant on a subdomain
There are many benefits of localizing websites
Expanding the customer base
Localized websites enable companies to reach potential customers in different countries and better adapt to local conditions.
Better customer loyalty
Localized websites enable more personal customer engagement through the use of local languages and cultural references.
Sales increase
Localized websites make it easier for potential customers to find and buy products and services, increasing brand trust. Competitive advantage: Companies that localize their websites can better position themselves in different countries and set themselves apart from their competitors.
Further features are being planned
- More languages: Webflow plans to add more languages in the future.
- More options for date and time formats: Users will soon be able to choose from a wider range of date and time formats.
- Translation accuracy improvements: Webflow's translation features are constantly being improved to ensure accurate translations.
Webflow Localization Conclusion
With Webflow, websites can be quickly and cost-effectively adapted to visitors from all over the world. Thanks to localizable content, images, styles, and metadata, websites can be visually adapted to different languages and regions.
Another major advantage is improved work processes. Webflow's localization tool makes team collaboration easy and saves time when creating localized content. SEO optimization also benefits from features such as localized meta tags, URLs, and sitemaps. This makes it easier for websites with Webflow Localization to generate traffic in new regions.
The feature is highly recommended for new websites to be created, but if it is an existing website, the transition to Webflow currently requires a lot of manual work. The lack of import functionality will be an obstacle for larger SEO-relevant websites. The restriction to 5 language variants is counterproductive, especially for the European market.
