Webflow has recently introduced new features for its localization tools. These tools now enable 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 takes care of the translation using artificial intelligence.
Another innovative function allows content to be individually adapted to the respective localization variant of the website. This allows the user experience to be optimized for different language groups and increases the user-friendliness of the website. For example, different images can be displayed on a Spanish website than on the corresponding German version.
The localization functions of Webflow
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 correct and understandable content.
Update 15.12.2023: Since today it is possible to translate CMS items completely with one click. More about this localization update here.
SEO optimization
Web localization also helps with search engine optimization (SEO). Content is translated in such a way that it is also understandable for search engines. In addition, separate meta tags and descriptions can be defined for each language to increase visibility in search results.
Setting the language preferences
Webflow makes it easy to customize the preferred language for the website. Users can select the desired language and Webflow automatically translates the website.
Customizable URL structures
Webflow offers customizable URL structures for each language to improve SEO optimization for multilingual websites.
Disadvantages of Webflow localization
- no option for custom footer & header code
- Only limited possibility to customize the language selection
- Only 5 language variants are available. Webflow-Enterprise offers more variants, but is extremely expensive.
- no possibility to import existing translations or URL slugs
- no possibility to host the language variant on a subdomain yet
Website localization offers numerous advantages
Expansion of the customer base
Localized websites enable companies to address potential customers in different countries and adapt better to local conditions.
Better customer loyalty
Localized websites enable more personalized customer engagement through the use of local languages and cultural references.
Increase in sales
Localized websites make it easier for potential customers to find and buy products and services, increasing trust in the brand.Competitive advantage: Companies that localize their websites can position themselves better in different countries and stand out 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.
Conclusion on Webflow localization
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 workflows. Webflow's localization tool facilitates team collaboration and saves time when creating localized content. SEO optimization also benefits from functions 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, but if it is an existing website, the conversion 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.
