Nokia, long a leader in telecommunications infrastructure, has taken a bold step into the API economy by acquiring Rapid, a company widely respected for its comprehensive API marketplace. This acquisition marks Nokia’s move to extend its influence in the 5G space by enabling telecom operators to open their networks to a wider developer ecosystem.
Rapid’s API Marketplace to Power Nokia’s “Network as Code” Initiative
Central to this acquisition is Rapid’s powerful API hub, which will be integrated into Nokia’s “Network as Code” initiative. This platform allows telecom operators to offer standardised, secure APIs, making it possible for developers to build applications and services leveraging network capabilities. By embedding Rapid’s technology into its 5G infrastructure, Nokia aims to unlock innovative use cases within both 5G and 4G networks.
Empowering Mobile Carriers: APIs for Seamless Connectivity
Rapid’s API marketplace will give Nokia the tools to support telecom providers in monetising their network features by making them accessible to third-party developers. With this new platform, mobile carriers can offer flexible API solutions, empowering developers to create a variety of applications tailored to evolving consumer demands. The API management solution will provide real-time control of API usage, improve lifecycle management, and encourage developer collaboration, ensuring that network operators can keep pace with digital transformation.
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Industry Adoption and Global Impact
Nokia’s API-driven framework has already caught the attention of industry giants like BT, DISH, Google Cloud, Orange, and Telefonica, which signals a strong foundation for Nokia’s global 5G strategy. By leveraging Rapid’s technology, Nokia’s platform promises extensive reach and potential for impactful 5G applications across continents.
A Strategic Pivot: Nokia’s Transition from Mobile Handsets to Telecom Infrastructure
This acquisition further solidifies Nokia’s transformation from a leading mobile handset manufacturer into a telecom infrastructure powerhouse. With Rapid’s API solutions now under its belt, Nokia is positioned as a critical link between telecom operators and the tech ecosystem, driving a new era of 5G-enabled services. This pivot highlights Nokia’s commitment to future-proofing its 5G offerings and supporting mobile operators in connecting seamlessly with a digital-first environment.
Strategic Vision from Nokia and Rapid’s Leaders
Raghav Sahgal, Nokia’s President of Cloud and Network Services, underscored the importance of providing a scalable platform that can bridge telecom capabilities with developers globally: “Operators need a bridge to thousands of developers to drive value creation and monetise networks. Rapid’s API technology and skilled R&D team will support Nokia in accelerating the adoption of network APIs,” Sahgal noted.
Marc Friend, CEO of Rapid, echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that Nokia’s global reach and expertise offer a unique opportunity to scale Rapid’s API solutions across the telecom industry. This partnership is poised to enhance Rapid’s impact by leveraging Nokia’s vast resources and network of connections.
Paving the Way for a Collaborative 5G Ecosystem
Nokia’s acquisition of Rapid underscores its investment in building a collaborative 5G ecosystem where telecom operators, technology providers, and developers can work together seamlessly. By bringing Rapid’s API marketplace into the fold, Nokia is creating a platform for global innovation, making it easier for operators to tap into the developer community and develop new applications that harness the full potential of 5G technology.
While financial terms of the acquisition remain undisclosed, the merger is expected to accelerate Nokia’s position in 5G and provide telecom companies with the tools to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
