The GSMA has released an update on its ambitious Open Gateway initiative, focusing on telecom APIs. This initiative aims to enhance engagement with developers and leverage advanced 5G capabilities. While there have been notable achievements, several challenges still require attention.
Launched in early 2023, Open Gateway aims to revolutionize global mobile networks through a standardized set of APIs. This innovation offers promising opportunities for mobile operators and partners. Currently, the initiative involves operators covering 75% of the global market, with 14 new operators joining recently.
As of December 2024, 67 operators are part of the Open Gateway. The expansion is primarily seen in China, South, and Southeast Asia, driven by operators like Smart and Globe Telecom. However, Africa, despite having a large subscriber base, sees only 5% participation, indicating a need for increased outreach.
Security is a major driver for the Open Gateway’s API adoption. Operators are focusing on APIs to prevent fraud and verify identities, such as SIM Swap and the UK’s new Scam Signal. Besides, other opportunities exist in areas like edge computing and location-based services.
The API ecosystem now consists of 23 APIs, addressing various use cases. Operators are urged to prioritize swift rollout and monetization. However, scaling depends on deeper engagement with developers, enterprises, and third-party aggregators. Despite technical readiness, 2025 will be crucial for overcoming demand-side challenges, like securing support from cloud giants like Google Cloud and AWS.
Network APIs are positioned as essential tools for tapping into the enterprise digital transformation market. This market is expected to double to nearly $1 trillion by 2030. Yet, enterprise integration of APIs remains slow, despite significant revenue opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing.
Engagement with developers is vital for scaling. The GSMA’s mid-2024 survey reveals a promising knowledge level among developers. However, regional disparities exist, with only a third of Chinese developers familiar with APIs, despite China’s 5G leadership.
Varied usage rates among developers reflect regional industry differences. Simplicity, flexibility, and clear API pricing models are developer priorities. Subscription models are popular, although alternatives like pay-per-feature are also considered appealing.
Several successful case studies highlight Open Gateway’s potential. In Finland, Nokia and Elisa’s project with Elmo Cars used dynamic network adjustments to enhance remote driving. In Indonesia, Telkomsel’s “Telco Verify” combats fraud in digital banking, crucial for the country’s digital economy.
These cases illustrate Open Gateway’s broad applications, though they also highlight areas for improvement. Future developments will focus on scalability and revenue proof.
The GSMA plans to address these challenges with initiatives like the Fusion project, aiming for pre-commitments to Open Gateway APIs from major global enterprises. Partnerships with industry leaders are essential for scaling efforts.
