Introduction to APIs

Abstract

API stands for application programming interface. An API helps expose a business service or an enterprise asset to the developers building an application. Applications can be installed and accessed from a variety of devices, such as smartphones, tablets, kiosks, gaming consoles, connected cars, and so forth. Google Maps APIs for locating a place on a map, Facebook APIs for gaming or sharing content, and the Amazon APIs for product information are some examples of APIs. Developers use these APIs to build cool and innovative apps that can provide an enriching user experience. For example, developers can use APIs from different travel companies to build an app that compares and displays each travel companies’ price for the same hotel. A user can then make an informed decision and book the hotel through the company that is providing the best offer. This saves the user from doing the comparison on his own—thus improving his overall experience. APIs thushelp provide an improved user experience.