Open XLF File

XLF, standing for XML Localization Interchange File Format, is a standard file format that enables easy translation of applications and digital media content. These files hold translation data, such as the source text along with corresponding translations, and they are used in software localization tools to import/export the data that needs translation. XLF files may differ slightly, depending on the software package they were created in. This article will discuss different formats and possible ways to open and use XLF file extensions in software development and digital media translation.

There are several types of XLF files. The main two are known as XLIFF (XML Localization Interchange File Format) used in translating digital content, and XLINGO, a type of XLIFF file specifically leveraged in software localization.

XLIFF Files

XML Localization Interchange File Format (XLIFF) is created by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) and is an open standard. This format is used by various tools that process translation data in different digital media contents, such as web pages and digital documents. XLIFF files can be opened and edited using a text editor, but most of the time, they are handled by industry-specific translation tools, such as SDL Trados, memoQ, or free ones like OmegaT. These tools offer more streamlined workflows and useful features specifically designed to help translators do their job more effectively.

XLINGO Files

XLINGO files are a type of XLIFF file, created by Lingoport, a company specializing in software localization. These files specifically cater to the needs of software localization, where not just text, but user interface and other aspects of software also need translation. XLINGO files have specific structures and tags that are most suitable for the software localization process. To open or work with XLINGO files, you will need Lingoport's suite of software localization tools.

XLF File Important Information

XLF files are an essential part of modern digital content and software translation. They streamline the translation process and ensure that all parts of a website, document, or software are accurately localized for different regions. Remember that while you can open XLF files with a simple text editor, it�s usually best to use specialized tools, whether for XLIFF or XLINGO files, to save time and ensure accuracy. It�s also worth noting that while the .xlf extension is primarily related to translation data, it can also be used in association with other kinds of software. For instance, in Adobe Creative Suite, .xlf is associated with license files. However, this falls out of the scope of our main topic on localization and translation.