What you’ll learn
- The three levels of localization — subtitles, AI voiceover, full dubbing — and how to choose
- A step-by-step flow that works for any target language
- Why good localization adapts phrasing instead of translating word-for-word
- How to scale one video into many markets efficiently
Subtitles, voiceover or dubbing?
Pick the level of localization your audience expects. Each is a step up in effort and impact.
- 1Translated subtitles — fastest and cheapest; the original audio stays and you add captions in the new language.
- 2AI voiceover — a natural translated voice replaces or overlays the narration; good for explainers and faceless content.
- 3Full dubbing — a translated voice matched to the original timing, optionally lip-synced so an on-camera speaker’s mouth fits the new language.
How to translate a video
The flow is the same whichever level you choose.
- 1Upload your video and pick the target language(s).
- 2AI transcribes and translates, keeping the timing aligned.
- 3Choose subtitles, AI voiceover, or full dubbing.
- 4Review the translation for tone and accuracy.
- 5Export the localized version — or several at once.
Keeping it natural
Good localization isn’t word-for-word. AI adapts phrasing, idioms and length so the result sounds native, and dubbing is time-synced so a translated line doesn’t run long and desync. For on-camera speakers, lip-sync re-animates the mouth so the dub looks believable rather than pasted on.
Scaling to many languages
Make the video once, then spin up a version for each market in minutes. Localised video consistently outperforms subtitle-only for engagement in non-English markets, so even two or three languages can meaningfully expand your audience without re-shooting anything.
Choosing which languages first
Don’t translate into everything at once. Check your analytics for where viewers already come from, look at the size of the opportunity, and start with your top two or three languages. Prove the lift, then expand — it keeps the work focused on markets that actually convert.
Quick tips
- Start with your top two or three audience languages, then expand.
- Keep on-screen text minimal so you only have to translate the voice and captions.
- Pair dubbing with lip-sync for a polished, native feel.
- Review the translation for tone — AI is accurate, but brand voice is yours to set.
- Use your analytics to choose languages, not guesswork.
Frequently asked questions
How many languages can I translate into?
More than 30, with natural translations time-aligned to your video.
Does it translate the voice too?
Yes — choose translated subtitles, an AI voiceover, or full dubbing.
Will the dub stay in sync?
Yes — dubbing is timed to the original and can be lip-synced to the speaker.
Is it free to try?
You can translate your first video free in the Vivideo app.
Can I translate into several languages at once?
Yes — generate multiple language versions from a single source video.