From a functional perspective, the scope is limited to telco APIs, which means APIs in the domain of telco mobile networks, telco fixed-line networks, or supporting these.
Thereby the focus is on the northbound interface (between telco operator and aggregator or capability consumer). To enable API roaming also the east-/westbound interface (telco operator to telco operator) is considered.
Eight universal network APIs are available at launch, including SIM Swap, Quality on Demand (QoD), Device Status (Connected or Roaming Status), Number Verify, Edge Site Selection and Routing, Number Verification (SMS 2FA), Carrier Billing – Check Out and Device Location (Verify Location).
Further APIs are expected to be launched throughout 2023. The APIs are defined, developed, and published in CAMARA, the open-source project for developers that is driven by the Linux Foundation in collaboration with the GSMA.
To illustrate a potential application of the QoD API, Henry Calvert, Head of Networks at GSMA, provided the example of a virtual music concert where musicians are based in different locations. In addition, the 5G Future Forum (5GFF) will enable musicians from all over the world to jam over the 5G networks of Rogers, Verizon and Vodafone, while KDDI, Telefónica, Mawari and Sturfee will showcase online shopping with the XR Digital Twin Store. Elsewhere, Deutsche Telekom is demonstrating applications of APIs, including QoD, alongside Matsuko and Orange.