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Migrate from legacy strings file to string catalog in Xcode

October 11, 2024

How to Migrate Your .strings File to a String Catalog in Xcode

If you're currently using a .strings file for localization in Xcode, migrating to a String Catalog is pretty simple process. Xcode now provides an easy way to transition from legacy .strings files to the newer format, which offers additional features and improved management.

Steps to Migrate to a String Catalog

  1. Right-click on your existing .strings file in the Xcode project navigator.
  2. Choose the option "Migrate to String Catalog..." from the context menu.
  3. Xcode will automatically create the new String Catalog file and transfer all your strings, keys, and comments into the new structure.

That's it! Xcode handles everything behind the scenes, so you can quickly switch over to the new format without hassle. Once the migration is complete, just build your project as usual to take advantage of the updated localization features.

Benefits of Using String Catalog

  • Enhanced Organization: Manage multiple languages and localizations more efficiently in one place.
  • Future-proofing: String Catalogs are the latest standard in Xcode localization, ensuring better support for future versions.
  • Ease of Use: The intuitive UI makes it easier to maintain and update localized content.

Take a few minutes to migrate today and enjoy the benefits of the String Catalog format for your project!

For more tips on managing localizations, explore other articles on String Catalog.