Tired of manually running dart run intl_utils:generate every time you update your Flutter translation files? This common development bottleneck can now be eliminated with a simple, yet powerful, file watcher script. Boost your productivity and ensure your intl_utils generated code is always up-to-date automatically.

This solution provides a seamless way to monitor your .arb translation files and trigger the regeneration process instantly upon any modification. Say goodbye to forgotten steps and inconsistent translation updates in your Flutter projects.

How to Implement and Use:

To get started, simply execute the following command in your terminal:

dart run scripts/watch_translations.dart

This command initiates a lightweight script that actively watches your lib/l10n directory. Any changes detected in .arb files within this directory will automatically trigger the translation generation command.

Under the Hood: The Dart Implementation

The core of this automation lies in a concise Dart script, leveraging dart:io for file system monitoring:

import 'dart:io';

void main() async {
  final l10nDir = Directory('lib/l10n');

  if (!l10nDir.existsSync()) {
    print('Error: lib/l10n directory does not exist');
    exit(1);
  }

  print('Watching for changes in lib/l10n/*.arb files...');
  print('Press Ctrl+C to stop\n');

  // Watch the directory
  await for (final event in l10nDir.watch()) {
    if (event.path.endsWith('.arb') && event.type == FileSystemEvent.modify) {
      print('Detected change in: ${event.path}');
      print('Generating translations...');

      final result = await Process.run(
        'dart',
        ['run', 'intl_utils:generate'],
        runInShell: true,
      );

      if (result.exitCode == 0) {
        print('✓ Translations generated successfully\n');
      } else {
        print('✗ Error generating translations:');
        print(result.stderr);
      }
    }
  }
}

Key Benefits:

• Automated Monitoring: Continuously watches your lib/l10n directory for any modifications to .arb files.
• Instant Regeneration: Automatically executes intl_utils:generate as soon as a change is detected.
• Clear Feedback: Provides immediate visual confirmation of successful generation or highlights any errors encountered.
• Enhanced Productivity: Eliminates repetitive manual tasks, allowing developers to focus on writing code.

This script utilizes Dart’s efficient Directory.watch() API, providing a robust and resource-friendly solution that runs seamlessly in the background. Embrace smarter workflows by automating the simple, yet crucial, steps in your development process.

#Flutter #Dart #MobileDevelopment #DeveloperProductivity #Automation #FlutterDev #Coding #SoftwareDevelopment