What is video localisation?
Video localisation is the process of adapting video for other language and cultural markets through subtitling, voice-over, on-screen text and cultural changes.
Detailed description
Video localisation is the process of adapting video content for different language and cultural markets, encompassing all the linguistic, cultural, and technical adaptations needed to make video content accessible and engaging for audiences who speak different languages.
Video localisation involves several specialised services that can be applied individually or in combination depending on the content type and target audience. Subtitling translates and displays written text on screen, allowing the original audio to remain while providing translation for viewers. Dubbing replaces the original audio with new recordings in the target language, performed by professional voice actors. Voice-over records translated narration over the original audio (which is reduced in volume), commonly used for documentaries, corporate videos, and training content. On-screen text replacement adapts titles, graphics, lower thirds, and other visual text elements embedded in the video. Audio description adds narrated descriptions of visual elements for accessibility.
The choice between subtitling, dubbing, and voice-over depends on the content type, target audience preferences, and budget. Some markets and content types favour subtitles (preserving original performances), while others strongly prefer dubbing (reducing cognitive load and enabling multitasking).
Technical considerations include frame rate and encoding standards, subtitle file formats and compatibility, audio synchronisation and lip-sync accuracy, and delivery specifications for different platforms and devices.
LEXIGO provides comprehensive video localisation services across 171 languages, managing the full workflow from transcription and translation through to final audio/video production and delivery.
Why it matters
Video is one of the most engaging content formats, but a video that is only available in English excludes multilingual audiences from this powerful medium. Video localisation extends the reach and impact of video content investment across every target language and market.
For organisations producing video content for marketing, training, compliance, community engagement, or public information, video localisation ensures that the significant investment in video production delivers value to the full breadth of the intended audience.
Related questions about video localisation
What is the difference between video translation and video localisation?
Video translation converts the words, usually as subtitles or voice-over. Video localisation adapts the whole video for the audience, including on-screen text, examples, imagery and cultural references.
Should a video be subtitled, voiced over or dubbed?
Subtitles are fastest and keep the original voices. Voice-over suits training and information videos. Dubbing replaces the original speech and is the most expensive. Choose based on your audience, budget and how the video will be watched.
How do you localise videos for culturally diverse Australian audiences?
Check the script works culturally before production, use in-language talent or messengers the community trusts, adapt on-screen text and graphics, and test with community members before release.
Which languages should Australian videos be translated into?
Base the choice on your audience data and where they live, not on national totals alone. The Australian Language Map shows the languages spoken in each area.
Do localised videos need captions?
Captions are recommended for accessibility, including for people who are Deaf or hard of hearing, and they help people watching without sound.