Image Alt Text Can Now Be Translated
Effective API Version: 2025‑10
Shopify now marks image alt text as a translatable resource, allowing image descriptions to be localized via the Translations API. This means that multilingual stores can display alt attributes in the visitor’s language even for SEO-sensitive fields like alt text (community.shopify.dev).
Why This Update Matters
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Better Multilingual SEO
Translated alt text boosts image-based organic search ranking for non-English keywords, improving visibility in international markets . -
Improved Accessibility
Screen readers will now read alt descriptions in the shopper’s language reinforcing inclusive design and usability. -
Tighter Localization
Previously, alt text remained static across locales. Now, it’s consistent with page language, giving customers a more seamless experience.
What You Should Do
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Enable API version 2025‑10 or later on your store.
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Use the Translations API to export and translate existing alt text so product and collection images show localized descriptions.
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Update liquid templates or meta logic to pull translated alt text when generating pages.
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Test your multilingual storefront and run audits to ensure images and alt text are language-appropriate for each locale.
Final Thoughts
This update transforms alt text from a static field into a dynamic part of your localization strategy. It’s a powerful upgrade especially if you're selling in multiple languages and optimizing for image search traffic across regions.
If you’d like help exporting, translating, or updating alt text across your store or need to optimize your multi‑language setup we offer free consultations. We help merchants unlock multilingual SEO and accessibility through thoughtful Shopify-first integrations.
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