Enthusiasm for the business case for network APIs is growing, and research group Omdia forecasts a $9 billion opportunity for APIs. However, split across the global telecom market, $9 billion is but a drop in the bucket.
On this podcast, the Light Reading editors discuss why some telcos are convinced that network APIs (application programming interfaces) will unlock new revenue streams. However, revenue projections aren't supporting the notion that APIs will be game changers in terms of return on investment, explains Iain Morris.
Despite mixed feelings on the staying power of APIs, initiatives focused on developing more structure, standards and industry buy-in are emerging. The GSMA, for example, launched its Open Gateway initiative as a "framework of common network APIs designed to provide universal access to operator networks for developers."
"There are 63 group operators that represent 271 networks – that's coverage of about three-quarters of the global mobile connections – that have agreed that they're on board with Open Gateway and the APIs participating in it," explains Phil Harvey.
For a lightly edited transcript, please click the caption button in the video toolbar.
Here are a few topics we cover:
Why are telcos convinced that APIs will unlock new revenue streams? (01:10)
GSMA's Open Gateway framework for APIs (04:28)
Will efforts to develop standards for network APIs slow deployment of the technology? (09:18)
Who will emerge as the gatekeepers of API marketplaces? (20:30)
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