5G network APIs to become necessity for telecom in 2026 & beyond: Capgemini

Capgemini expects 5G network APIs to shift from experiment to basic requirement for telecom operators from 2026 onward. Instead of just selling connectivity, operators are being pushed to expose network functions — such as speed, latency and location features — through APIs so developers can build paid services on top.

The market is already moving. Ericsson and a group of global operators formed Aduna, a 50:50 joint venture focused on network APIs. Nokia and Bharti Airtel have also teamed up to open Airtel’s 5G network capabilities to developers, targeting new use cases across industries. Capgemini’s view is that similar API strategies will be necessary for telcos that want to grow beyond traditional data and voice revenue.