This is issue 2024.09 of the API Changelog, a mix of API news, commentary, and opinion. In this issue, you'll get to know the most relevant API-related information from the week of February 19, 2024. Subscribe now, so you never miss an issue of the API Changelog.
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WordPress 6.5 introduces the Block Bindings API, promising seamless integration of database content into web pages. This feature simplifies dynamic content management and expands creative possibilities for site builders.
Verizonhas launched an API portal granting developers access to its 5G capabilities, aiming to enhance customer experiences. The provider's APIs, spanning various functions, enable advanced services like multifactor authentication to bolster security in sectors like banking and retail. See additional coverage on TelecomTalk.
Nabstractwill present novel telco products and its NEF at MWC 2024, aligning with the GSMA Open Gateway. The company demonstrates CAMARA API use with Intel Open VINO, simplifying 5G API monetization and network API integration for developers.
Vonage and AWShave struck a partnership enhancing communication APIs and merging 5G capabilities to innovate offerings. The alliance focuses on network API integration, facilitating fraud protection, and fostering developer access to advanced technologies. See additional coverage on Marketech Apac, LightReading, and businesswire.
AT&T and Vonageare teaming up to foster innovation through network and communication API integration. The collaboration aims to enhance enterprise services and customer experiences by creating a dynamic ecosystem using 5G-enabled APIs. See additional coverage on Silverlinings, LightReading, TR, and Fierce Wireless.
Vault Verifyunveiled the Vault EDGe Gateway, a secure, API-integrated platform to regulate HR data access. The service automates data flow, minimizes exposure risk, and simplifies compliance through controlled, real-time data sharing.
Moringa Schoolhas joined forces with Safaricom and M-PESA Africa to train developers in API and mini-app development. The program offers certification and targets the tech talent shortage in Africa, focusing on enhancing the M-PESA ecosystem.
Veonlaunched a "Geolocation Gateway" with Beeline Uzbekistan, enabling developers to access location-based APIs for various applications. The technology supports uses from fraud prevention to targeted marketing, and adheres to global privacy laws
Merge, an API integration platform, is now available in the Amazon Web Services (AWS) Marketplace. This launch allows B2B SaaS companies to more easily incorporate numerous integrations into their products.
Pollyintegrates its advanced mortgage pricing engine with Byte Software's LOS, providing strategic flexibility and efficiency gains to lenders. The partnership allows lenders to optimize margin strategies and automate workflows, bolstering profitability and user experience. See additional coverage on businesswire.
MTN Cameroonlaunched Chenosis, a comprehensive API marketplace aimed at fostering digital innovation across various African industries. Chenosis represents MTN's commitment to enhancing Cameroon's digital transformation and economic growth by simplifying tech integration for developers and businesses.
Amazon Neptune now supports over 40 data plane APIs in the AWS SDK, allowing easier data tasks like loading and querying. SDKs are available in all supported AWS regions for Neptune engine version 1.2.2.0 and above, streamlining application development.
Cathay Cargohas rolled out a new API to streamline bookings for major forwarders like DB Schenker. They've also launched a developer portal to ease forwarders' access to their digital booking system and enhance customer service.
Funding
Monite, an API-first fintech, raised $6M more in seed funding for US market expansion and European dominance. Despite a downturn in fintech VC interest, Monite's growth attracted investment co-led by Valar Ventures and Third Prime.
Qlooexpects increased advertiser demand for its AI recommendation API amid growing data privacy regulations and ad targeting changes. The company's latest $25 million funding will expand its team and develop tools for SMBs, following its acquisition of TasteDive. See additional coverage on TechTarget.
AI
Google's Gemini API bridges human language and code enabling intuitive interactions with Google Sheets. The API's flexibility facilitates new user-friendly applications, despite needing improvements in AI understanding.
Redditstruck a $60 million agreement to train AI models with its data, revealed before its anticipated IPO. The move monetizes user content but may displease its community. See additional coverage on Medianama, CCN, Google, Quartz, The Register, and The Verge.
Google DeepMindintroduced Gemma, open-source AI models with variants and a commercial license, and a new generative AI toolkit. They support multiple frameworks and Nvidia improved AI platform optimization for Gemma, stressing safety and the open AI ecosystem.
GeneGPTimproves LLMs' access to biomedical data by integrating LLMs with NCBI's Web APIs, enabling precise, real-time information retrieval. This innovation significantly reduces inaccuracies and expands LLM utility in domains requiring specialized, verified knowledge.
AWShas integrated Mistral AI's open-source large language models with Amazon Bedrock. This move simplifies machine learning workflows for developers.
Fintech
Fintech firm Deellaunches an API for streamlined, accurate global payroll management and reporting automation. The new API consolidates data and simplifies processes for over 20,000 customers, with fresh integrations rolling out monthly.
EbixCash, a leader in financial tech, collaborates with Spare8's Digital Gold platform to introduce gold leasing in Asia via MoneyWare. Marking a fintech innovation, the partnership brings investment opportunities with Spare8’s ecosystem, now accessible via EbixCash’s network.
Alchemy Payhas partnered with Fastex to launch a virtual prepaid crypto card for recharging various cryptocurrencies. The card, supported by Mastercard and Visa, can be applied for through Fastex's website, reflecting Alchemy's global reach and compliance efforts.
Ozone API, an open banking leader, appoints former Virgin Money CEO Dame Jayne-Anne Gadhia as Board Chair. Her leadership coincides with Ozone API's growth, including a Series A funding round and plans for global expansion. See additional coverage on Fintech Finance News and Fintech Futures.
The Open Banking Impact Reportreveals one in nine UK citizens use open banking, yet market fragmentation threatens PSD2's viability. APIs, central to open banking, vary across banks, leading to aggregators creating unified APIs and concerns over unlicensed third-party access.
GriffinLaunches Early Access Programme for UK Businesses Seeking Direct BaaS Integration. Griffin Foundations programme empowers UK businesses to integrate banking features like savings and safeguarding accounts using its API-driven platform. Lettspay, a proptech client, hails Griffin's solution to industry banking challenges, while select participants receive extensive support and product influence.
Security
Auth0 and Mitto advocate for two-factor authentication (2FA) as a defense against the rising cybercrime costs, projected to hit $10.5 trillion annually. Implementing 2FA can significantly cut down fraud and bolster user trust, with services like Mitto enhancing SMS verification delivery for companies' cybersecurity.
Digital transformation in finance hinges on the growing use of APIs, elevating cyberattack risks due to API vulnerabilities. Companies must employ strong authentication, secure design, and vigilant monitoring for API integrity and data protection.
Solsniffer, a new blockchain intelligence tool, enhances security for the Solana ecosystem with over 18 security indicators. It aims to lead in blockchain security, with future updates including 40+ indicators and a developer API.
Under the GSMA Open Gateway initiative, South African operators will use APIs to combat digital fraud. These APIs will enhance number verification and SIM swap security for mobile subscribers and financial institutions.
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