Ericsson and Telcos Launch 5G API Standardization Initiative

A new joint venture has been announced between Ericsson and major global telco providers, aiming to standardize and monetize APIs for mobile networks. This initiative is expected to address the longstanding issue of developers needing to adapt applications for different networks, which has hindered the creation of network-capable apps. By establishing a common set of global network API standards, the venture will allow developers to create applications that can function across various mobile networks without extensive modifications. The joint venture, which is anticipated to be finalized in the first half of 2025, is half-owned by Ericsson and its mobile network partners. It builds upon existing frameworks like the GSMA’s Open Gateway initiative and the open-source CAMARA APIs, providing a solid foundation for the new standards. The collaboration aims to simplify the development process for mobile app creators, making it easier to leverage network capabilities. In addition to the telcos, Google Cloud and Ericsson’s Vonage division are involved in the initiative, enhancing the accessibility of these APIs to a wide range of developers. While the transition to a model where developers may need to share revenue with carriers could be challenging, the potential for a unified API standard is likely to attract interest from the developer community. This initiative represents a significant shift in the telecommunications landscape, moving away from the concept of 'dumb pipes' towards a more intelligent and integrated network service model. The successful implementation of these standards could lead to new revenue streams for telcos and innovative applications for users worldwide.