Network API Revenue to Exceed $8 Billion by 2030

A new study from Juniper Research has found that operator revenue from network Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) globally will exceed $8 billion by 2030. This is a substantial increase from the $284 million operators are forecasted to generate in 2025, with Juniper Research identifying KYC as key to this revenue boost.

Network APIs enable external applications to interact with telecoms networks, allowing operators to generate revenue through access to their networks. Juniper Research identified SIM Swap and Number Verification APIs as key early use cases that will foster confidence in a growing API ecosystem. The SIM Swap API detects recent SIM changes to prevent fraud, while the Number Verification API confirms device ownership.

Juniper Research believes that APIs that provide authentication services will be key in fostering initial confidence in a growing API ecosystem. However, the company urges operators to launch Know Your Customer (KYC) network APIs to provide stronger identity assurance for enterprises. KYC APIs verify users against a range of operator-verified data, including subscriber information, the SIM, and the device being used.

“Operators must leverage the advanced capabilities of the KYC API to charge a higher fee per API call; thus pushing greater revenue growth,” said Alex Webb, Senior Research Analyst at Juniper Research. “KYC APIs will have the greatest impact in market verticals such as eCommerce and gambling, where regulations are increasingly requiring more stringent solutions for age verification. Operators must ensure they provide reliable information on a user’s identity to capitalize on this opportunity; otherwise, they risk faltering growth in the early stage of KYC APIs”.