There are plans to update the language selector with new designs and technology (T287860). However, as we faced technical challenges to progress with those (T287860#7254934), in the interim we'll be updating the current ULS to incorporate some key features. Since the current selector will be deprecated in the future, we'll prioritize those features that help with issues related to the desktop improvements which provides language selection in a new placement.
These include providing access to options for "edit links" on Wikidata, and entry points to translation. Access to these were lost in the change of placement of the selector. In addition, other changes for a better visual integration, such as aligning the entry point icon match the format of those next to it (T289630) are considered too.
- T290436: Add support for empty states to the current language selector
- T290972: Add "relevant missing languages" to the current language selector
- T289840: Add "quick actions" menu to the current language selector
- T289630: Language icon increases in size when TypeaheadSearch input is focussed/language switcher is clicked
Check the sub-tasks list for more details.