Dictionary App Builder (DAB) — Introduction
“Dictionary App Builder helps you to build customized dictionary apps for Android and iOS smartphones and tablets.”
DAB Website
The Dictionary App Builder (DAB) is designed to help build dictionary apps for Android and iOS smartphones and tablets. This tool can be used with lexicon data exported from SIL Lexicography tools FLEx, WeSay, or Lexique Pro with customizable fonts, colours, audio, and illustrations to make an app.
The app is created using the DAB software on a computer, after which the completed app is downloaded to mobile phones and tablets. Once the app has been created, it can be published on app stores and the user’s website. It can also be shared offline via Bluetooth or memory cards.
This tool is not designed for creating dictionaries or lexicons from scratch and does not allow users to enter data directly. A completed dictionary from a SIL International tool (FLEx, WeSay, or Lexique Pro) must be imported into DAB on a computer to create an app. DAB is not compatible with Toolbox or any non-SIL software. Although DAB is compatible with Linux, Windows, and macOS operating systems, no SIL dictionary compilation tools are compatible with macOS, and Lexique Pro is not compatible with Linux. Note that apps for iOS can only be developed on macOS.
Users will have to download additional software to create apps with DAB. For example, Java Development Kit and Android Software Development Kit will need to be installed to create Android apps. Likewise, to create iOS apps (which can only be created on macOS), Xcode and Transported must be installed. Details on additional required software are available in the DAB installation documentation.
Highlights
- Free
- The finished app can be shared and used offline
- Software tasks are simple and largely automated
- Simplifies the app creation process
- Compatible with Linux, Windows, macOS
- The entire app interface can be translated
- The app icon is customizable
- Supports the addition of images and audio for entries
- Can be used to build from the command line
Considerations
- Only compatible with lexicons from SIL International Tools (FLEx, WeSay and Lexique Pro)
- Requires a completed lexicon to create the app (namely, dictionaries cannot be built directly in DAB)
- Internet access is initially required to launch an app
- No reviews of software are available
- Data cannot be password protected if published on an app store
- Additional software is needed to create an app
Alternatives to DAB
Mother Tongues can also be used for building apps, and does not require a project to be connected to an SIL tool.
FirstVoices (for communities within British Columbia, Canada) also offers app functionality. Apps built with FirstVoices can be published publicly on app stores, or shared privately within the community.
Examples of Dictionaries Using DAB
There are no publicly listed examples of dictionaries using DAB.
Support Services
SIL International points users to documentation on the DAB website for guidance in using the software and to the Language Software Community forum to receive help from the DAB community.
For additional help, users must create a ticket and contact SIL by email. Information on creating a ticket can be found on the DAB website.
Developer
DAB was developed by SIL International, starting in 2012.
As of 2023, DAB is still being updated and supported.