AI in localization workflows — a working map
Where AI actually sits in translation and localization work: platforms, TMS features, and the review loops around them. Entries marked 'not yet verified' are listed but not yet checked against vendor documentation.
Machine translation and AI translation
DeepL
Machine translation and writing tools, widely used as the MT layer in localization pipelines; since Sept 2026 also reachable directly inside Microsoft Copilot, ChatGPT, and Claude via a Model Context Protocol integration.
Unbabel
AI translation with human review in the loop, aimed at multilingual customer service.
Lilt
Enterprise translation platform combining adaptive MT with human translators.
Translation management systems
Phrase
TMS with AI features across the localization workflow.
Lokalise
TMS for software teams, with AI translation and workflow automation.
Smartling
Enterprise TMS with AI-powered translation options.
Crowdin
Localization platform with AI assistants and broad integration catalog.
CMS-level localization
WPML (AI translation)
WordPress multilingual plugin with automatic and AI-assisted translation. Disclosure: I worked at WPML for twelve years.