How to support Arabic language?
Asked on 2024-07-30
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To support the Arabic language in your app, you can follow several guidelines and utilize specific features introduced by Apple at WWDC. Here are some key points:
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Multilingual Keyboard: iOS 18 introduces a multilingual keyboard that allows typing in more than one language without manually switching. This includes support for Arabic.
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Redesigned Function Row: The Magic Keyboard for the new M4 iPad Pro features a redesigned function row for Arabic, where the volume and brightness keys are mirrored between hardware and software to provide a seamless experience.
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SF Symbols: SF Symbols are localized into a wide variety of languages and scripts, including right-to-left languages like Arabic. This ensures that symbols look natural and are appropriately mirrored.
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Text Rendering: When displaying Arabic text, ensure that
clipsToBoundsis set to false for any labels or text views, as text in many languages, including Arabic, may need to render outside the view bounds. -
Typesetting: You can specify the typesetting language to ensure the best behavior for Arabic text. This can help with proper interline spacing and overall readability.
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Localization: Use the
Uipreferssetting in the info plist to show language settings, allowing users to choose Arabic as the app-specific language independently of the device language.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the session Build multilingual-ready apps (00:01:54).
Relevant Sessions
These sessions provide comprehensive insights into supporting multiple languages, including Arabic, in your applications.

Build multilingual-ready apps
Ensure your app works properly and effectively for multilingual users. Learn best practices for text input, display, search, and formatting. Get details on typing in multiple languages without switching between keyboards. And find out how the latest advances in the String Catalog can make localization even easier.

Meet the Translation API
Discover how you can translate text across different languages in your app using the new Translation framework. We’ll show you how to quickly display translations in the system UI, and how to translate larger batches of text for your app’s UI.
