Non-proprietary network APIs have emerged as a highly anticipated means for telcos to monetise their 5G investments by meeting as yet untapped B2B2X customer needs. This forecast estimates the size of the opportunity for telcos in the 2023–2030 period.
This dashboard presents the key findings of STL Partners’ demand forecast model for network APIs. Its purpose is to:
- Assess the demand from 42 B2B2X use cases which can benefit from network APIs, unlocking new value for telecoms operators by giving developers access to their networks.
- Identify the total value of this demand, attributed to 18 APIs and broken down into directly realisable revenue (both direct and indirect) and enablement value for edge computing and private networks.
- Output results for the world as well as 33 individual countries and seven regions, per API, use case and industry vertical.
The value of network APIs will reach US$34 billion by 2030
High-level findings from the model indicate that:
- The total value of network APIs market will grow from US$4 billion in 2023 to US$34 billion in 2030 at a CAGR of 34% over the 7-year period.
- This value will be spread between realisable revenues through direct and indirect channels (where aggregators will take a margin) and enablement value to support operators’ edge computing or private network strategies.
- Early value will be driven by the low-hanging fruit of the identity family of APIs, though growth in network performance APIs will drive longer term revenue and unlock enablement value.