Automated .xcstrings Localization with Claude Code

A developer built a specialized skill for Claude Code that automates localization of Xcode .xcstrings files. The approach uses five pipeline stages run in order for best results:

Pipeline Stages

1. Scan Domain — Analyzes Swift types, enums, imports, and README files to build a glossary of ambiguous terms (e.g., "trip" = driving journey, not vacation).
2. Generate Comments — Scans Swift/Storyboard/XIB code for string key usage, then writes context and translator guidance into the .xcstrings file.
3. Localize — Translates strings while preserving correct CLDR plural forms per language and %@/%lld specifiers, using domain-accurate terms.
4. Check Grammar — Reviews translations for spelling, grammar, punctuation, capitalization, and terminology consistency across all languages.
5. Fix Plurals — Detects simple strings with %lld/%d that need plural forms and converts them to proper CLDR plural variations.

The skill is available as an open-source repository. It builds on an earlier macOS app that localized apps key-by-key, now adapted for AI agent use with Claude Code.

Result

You can add localization for as many languages as needed without manual work or outsourcing. The project welcomes improvement ideas via GitHub issues or pull requests.

Who It's For

iOS/macOS developers managing Xcode localizations and using Claude Code for agent-driven development.