What are Network APIs (and why you should give them a try)?
Did you know there’s a secret weapon shaking up how apps connect with telecom networks? They’re called Network APIs — but what exactly are they, and why should you care?
Imagine this: you’re a developer navigating the telco landscape, where each telecom operator presents a distinct API tailored to its unique requirements. It’s like having to speak a different language every time you interact with a new Telco. Not fun, right?
This complex web of custom requests and responses makes integration difficult, slowing down development and complicating efforts to scale applications across different networks.
This is where Network APIs come into play.
So, what’s a Network API anyway?
As Filip Cimermancic (Product Manager at Infobip) explains, “Network APIs provide a new way of interacting with Telco networks -whether you want to manage how your app talks to the network or leverage data collected by Telco operators.”
Thanks to the CAMARA project, this process is becoming much simpler.
“CAMARA solves this problem by providing standardized APIs across Telcos,” Vilim Duganic (Software Engineer at Infobip) explains.
An open-source initiative led by the Linux Foundation and GSMA, CAMARA aims to make Network APIs more standardized, innovative, and accessible to developers worldwide. So instead of learning a new API for every Telco, you can work with one unified standard. It’s like having a universal translator in the world of network communications.
A cheat sheet for use cases for Network APIs
- Number Verification: Verifying phone numbers is easy with Network APIs. You can match a phone number with an IP address in seconds, reducing fake accounts and boosting security with features like OTP replacements.
- Device Location: Want to send users offers when they’re near certain stores? Network APIs can fetch user locations and set up geofencing, allowing you to deliver timely, location-based notifications.
- SIM Swap Detection: Concerned about fraud? Network APIs can help you track SIM swaps, alerting you when a number has changed cards—a common tactic in fraud attacks.
- Device Status: Keep users informed by checking their device’s connection or roaming status, ensuring they always have a smooth experience.
- Quality on Demand: Facing performance issues? Network APIs let you adjust latency and bit rate in real time, so you can enhance your app’s performance on the go.
- Know Your Customer (KYC): For industries needing secure verification, Network APIs simplify KYC processes. You can quickly verify user identities and even auto-fill data for a better user experience.
Getting started with Network APIs is easier than you think
And the best part? You don’t need any fancy tools to get started.
“Most communication with Network APIs is done via simple HTTP calls,” says Vilim. No need for special libraries – just good ol’ HTTP and some encryption for extra safety.
What’s next for Network APIs?
Looking ahead, Filip envisions great potential in leveraging operator data to enhance fraud protection. “Examining user behavior can help us stop social engineering attacks, and I believe Network APIs will play a crucial role in fraud prevention moving forward.”
This perspective suggests that we are only beginning to tap into the capabilities of Network APIs.
So, from stopping fraud to enhancing mobile connectivity and integrating with payment systems, the possibilities offered by Network APIs are truly limitless. With the CAMARA project paving the way to standardize and simplify interactions with Telco networks, the future is bright for developers eager to explore this dynamic frontier.
So, go ahead – unleash the power of Network APIs and discover where this exciting journey will take you!
