Unlock the potential of your videos by adding translations on YouTube ✔️ Connect with a broader audience and enhance your content's global appeal
Want to reach a global audience on YouTube? Translation can work wonders for that matter! Take the case of our partner Kids Diana Show for instance: they launched 20 translated channels and raked in over 160 million subscribers across those channels with a monthly global viewership of 2.5 billion. Impressive, isn't it? The cherry on top: localizing your channel isn't as challenging as you'd think. Let's dive into key strategies, tactics, and AI tools to help you globalize through translation.
The Power of Targeting Specific Language Groups
There are lots of English speakers on YouTube, like 1.45 billion of them! But there are also over 12 million English-speaking creators trying to get noticed. On the other hand, there are 602 million Hindi speakers, 548 million Spanish folks, 274 million Arabic listeners, and way fewer creators in those languages.
Think about all the views you're missing by not translating your content. Now, let's explore the main steps to adapt your content and reach those audiences.
How to Translate Videos on YouTube
Kicking off your global journey, here are the three main strategies to get into multilingual content.
- Start with Subtitles: 57% of viewers prefer videos with subtitles, so this is a winning strategy. Don't forget to translate the metadata too. Remember, that YouTube Studio provides a nifty auto-caption feature, but occasionally it could use some manual finesse for accuracy. If you're inclined, you can craft your subtitles in YouTube Studio. To add subtitles correctly, take a look at this instruction.
- Go Multi-Language with AI Help: The next step of scaling through translation is adding audio tracks through YouTube's multi-language feature. It allows creators to add dubbing to their new and existing videos, but here's the catch – YouTube’s not doing the dubbing for us. To get those multi-language audio tracks, you can opt for the classic touch of voice actors or dive into the wave with AI dubbing.
- Full Translation and Localization: Want to go really big? Creating fully translated channels is the way. For example, HZHtube Kids Fun localized their content into 12 languages and reached over 54 million subscribers globally. But let's be real, managing translations, coordinating audio recordings, and overseeing multiple channels can be a task. Luckily, there's relief: you can use dedicated YouTube services that can localize your channel seamlessly without you investing a dime.
How to Add Translation to YouTube Video: Tips for Multilingual Content
To connect with a global audience and speak their language, let's explore some practical tips about adding translations to your videos:
- Make Language Choices Based on Data: Use YouTube Analytics to understand where your viewers are coming from. This can help you decide which languages to prioritize for translations.
- Mind the Culture: Remember, the key to successful multilingual content is understanding and respecting your diverse audience. While translation is a vital part, also consider cultural nuances and sensitivities to make your content truly global.
- Provide Context: If your video discusses topics or references that might be unfamiliar to international audiences, consider adding brief explanations or footnotes.
- Avoid Jargon and Regional Slang: When creating content, avoid using idioms or phrases that might not translate well or could be misinterpreted.
- Use Bilingual Titles and Descriptions: This can help draw in a wider audience and make sure that both English and non-English speakers can find and understand the gist of your video.
- Synchronize Captions: Ensure that the text matches the spoken word. This not only aids understanding but also boosts viewer retention.
- Consider the Length of Text: Some languages may have longer translations. Ensure that your captions aren't too lengthy to read within the time they're displayed.
- Keep Captions Readable: Choose clear fonts and colors that contrast well with the video background.
- Test Your Translations: Before finalizing and publishing, show your translated content to native speakers and gather feedback.
- Announce Translation: Let your audience know when you’ve added translations to your videos. It can increase viewership and appreciation from non-native speakers.
If handling all this feels like a lot, consider hiring professionals. You've got three main choices to pick from:
- Freelance Platforms: Websites like Fiverr, Upwork, and Freelancer can connect you with skilled translators.
- Local YouTube Translators: They offer translation and voice acting. It may be pricier but offers convenience.
- Specialized Services for Content Creators: These work on a revenue-share basis, requiring no investment and providing full-cycle services.
And speaking of help, there's a whole world of top-notch AI translation tools that can assist you in your global expansion. Let's dive into the best of them!
Best YouTube Video Translation Tools
There are a ton of AI tools and translation services for creators popping up these days, but not all are made equal. At VidCon 2023 in Anaheim, the biggest event for creators, we spotlighted the ones that truly stand out. Here's the list for you:
- Vidby: With this tool, you get AI translation and dubbing in 70 languages. The kicker? Their AI dubbing sounds just like a real human voice.
- AIR Translate: Brought to you by AIR Media Tech. This service handles all the heavy lifting, from dubbing and AI translation to full-on channel localization. And the best part? It requires no investment on your side.
- Descript: This is an audio and video editing tool that provides sound molding and also features auto-transcription.
Today, your content has the potential to resonate on a global scale like never before. Armed with the right strategies, tips, AI tools, and specialized services, translating and localizing your content becomes an easy walk. It's the best time to go global! Remember that if you ever need assistance, AIR Media Tech is always here to lend a hand.
