The case for Network APIs has been made
The key to innovation the delivers value is simpler integration with network capabilities.
That relies on APIs – Application Programming Interfaces – which act as translator and facilitator, enabling different applications to seamlessly communicate, share data and deliver services by enabling network and application to work together.
There is high demand for new applications to support commercial opportunities, mitigate risk and increase efficiency and productivity. Combined with network evolution such as 5G and now 6G, this has driven demand for Network APIs that help developers integrate network functions and data into applications and see value and financial returns from them much more quickly.
Why Open APIs matter
The proprietary Network APIs most providers are already used to working with limit interoperability, with vendor lock-in restricting how solutions can be used. This adds cost and complexity and slows innovation.
Open Network APIs by contrast provide the robust development and testing of proprietary options, with greater flexibility across industries and use cases. Development can be accelerated by building on a wide range of available APIs that can be tailored using far less developer time. Time to value and risk is reduced and organisations can focus on innovation vs development process.
A wealth of use cases across industries
Open Network APIs are already being used to harness the power of the network and deliver services. Examples include:
- For banks and payments providers, SIM Swap, Know Your Customer (KYC) Match and Number Verification APIs are helping them fight fraud and streamline customer authentication
- Broadcasters are using network APIs to guarantee the quality of 5G broadcast rigs at live events and connect them to broader digital customer experiences
- Connecting digital healthcare with secure, reliable connectivity, reducing friction and waiting times for patients and practitioners
- Providing reliable connectivity for automated vehicle systems and enabling remote monitoring to improve safety and ensure connectivity to critical systems
The role of GSMA Open Gateway initiative
The GSMA Open Gateway initiative provides a global framework of open network APIs that simplify access to mobile operator networks. The goal is to enable interoperability and consistency that allows developers to achieve global mobility.
By providing developers and cloud providers a single point of access to the world’s largest connectivity platform, it supports application portability and seamless user experiences, helping the telecom and tech industries fully realise the potential of 5G.
GSMA Open Gateway APIs are defined, developed and published in CAMARA, the open-source project for developers to access enhanced network capabilities, driven by the Linux Foundation in collaboration with the GSMA. GSMA Open Gateway Certification is a structured testing program aimed at ensuring Operators and API providers deploy standardised APIs compliant with CAMARA standards and specifications.
Prioritising enterprise requirements with GSMA Fusion
The number of potential use cases for Open Network APIs is almost endless. Focus is therefore key to delivering Open APIs that will drive value and returns. GSMA Fusion connects enterprises, mobile operators, and technology innovators to identify and develop those APIs that enterprise requires.
By listening to industry and focusing on enterprise needs, Fusion takes real-world challenges to deliver the insights that shape the GSMA Open Gateway framework.
Bu fostering collaboration around Open Network API development, Fusion helps enterprises access new capabilities, accelerate innovation, and drive a more interoperable digital ecosystem.
Explore further information here.