Localizable.strings in UTF-8 is working?

Question

I am running Xcode 4.3 but the same thing works with Xcode 4.2. Previously, Localizable.strings file had to be in UTF-16 to be picked up by iOS; UTF-8 strings file did not work.

But this morning, I created a new test project and my Localizable strings files where created in UTF-8 by XCode. I did not realize it right away but they do work and are being used properly on the simulator, an iOS 5 iPad and a 4.3 iPad. My question is, do you know since when this has been working? Is this documented somewhere or do I have something messed up?

Answer 1

I've been using UTF-8 strings files for some time. Never seen a problem.

However, Apple does still recommend UTF-16.

As of March 21, 2016, Apple recommends UTF-8

Answer 2

I'm having problems with UTF-8 strings files under Xcode 4.3.2 building for iPhone 5.1.

It seems certain combinations of characters ( ':' or ">" in my case ) in the translated string are causing all translations after that character to use the string in the code, not the translated string.