IDML Translator: Localize InDesign Files With AI Agents

Translating InDesign files can be complex due to formatting and layout constraints. The traditional method is costly and slow, involving sending files to agencies, waiting for them to finish the translation, and then manually reapplying layouts.

Smartcat streamlines this process with the Document Translation Agent. Simply upload your IDML file into the agent, run the agent to translate the content, review the translations, and export— all while preserving your original layout. It’s fast, accurate, and built for enterprise teams that need fast, accurate translations at scale.

An IDML (InDesign Markup Language) file is a format used by Adobe InDesign to create and share layouts for print and digital media—like brochures, eBooks, posters, and more. It’s commonly used across design, marketing, and publishing industries.

Ensure high-quality, design-consistent translations by following these tips:

• Apply paragraph and character styles to text: This helps ensure consistent formatting and organized layers for easier translation.

• Account for text expansion/contraction: Some languages will require more or less space to say the same thing than others—design with flexible text frames to handle different text lengths in the translated version.

• Maintain layout integrity: Adjust layouts for right-to-left languages and adapt or recreate graphics with embedded text.

• Use AI translation tools: Advanced translation platforms that leverage translation memory and custom glossaries like our Document Translation Agent will greatly speed up translation projects while maintaining a high level of accuracy.

• Work with native reviewers: Have native speakers review the translated document for accuracy and cultural relevance. Smartcat Marketplace makes it easy to source native language experts for a streamlined review experience.

• Implement version control: Keep backup copies and use clear file naming to differentiate language versions.

Smartcat offers a comprehensive solution for translating InDesign files, combining AI-driven translation with human expertise to deliver accurate, on-brand results. The platform supports large volumes of content, integrates seamlessly with your existing tools, and provides robust data security. Additionally, Smartcat’s collaborative features and access to a global network of professional linguists make it the ideal choice for efficient and high-quality translations.

Reasons to pick Smartcat as your translation platform include:

• Support for a wide range of languages: Smartcat supports translation in over 280 languages, catering to a wide array of global business needs. From world languages like English and Spanish to many less widely spoken languages, Smartcat allows you to target the markets you want with the highest standard of accuracy.

• Excellent translation quality at unbeatable speed: Smartcat combines AI and human workflows to deliver fast and consistently accurate translations. Built-in QA tools, including translation memory and glossary integration, enhance quality by adapting to your preferences over time, allowing reviewers to concentrate on the most critical edits.

• Enterprise-level security: Smartcat adheres to stringent enterprise security standards, employing advanced encryption and industry-leading cloud security measures. Smartcat’s data centers are SOC-1, SOC-2, and SOC-3 compliant, with round-the-clock staffing and monitoring.

• Customizable workflows: Smartcat offers robust customization options. You can tailor workflows by setting specific translation guidelines, uploading company-specific glossaries, establishing approval processes, and integrating with various applications to meet your team’s needs.

Smartcat is the only platform that combines content creation, translation, and localization, automated by expert-enabled AI agents that continuously learn from your team and evolve with your business.

Smartcat offers over 30 integrations, inclseamlessly connecting with popular workplace software solutions, from coding platforms like Github to popular workplace productivity and web publishing apps like Google Workspace or WordPress. 

Custom API access is also available for specific development needs, ensuring smooth integration with your existing tech stack.

Smartcat is an AI-powered content platform that helps enterprises scale globally and reduce costs through expert-backed AI agents, multilingual content creation in 280+ languages, and efficient AI-human workflows.