Nokia introduced its Network as Code platform and developer portal, which enables application developers and communication service providers (CSPs) to accelerate the work of producing software applications for new enterprise, industrial, and consumer use cases and monetizing 5G and 4G network assets beyond basic connectivity.
5G-era networks are fundamentally software-based, a step change from how networks were designed years ago. This means they are also programmable through Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and other software development tools, all of which provide access to deep functionality and data within networks and allow application developers to build new use cases and capabilities for their customers.
TAPPING INTO NETWORK CAPABILITIES
Nokia sees these capabilities falling into two primary groups: 5G capabilities and advanced capabilities. 5G capabilities include areas such as network slicing, quality on demand, and edge cloud, while advanced capabilities include areas like subscriber and device status and billing that do not require 5G networks to make them available.
To tap into those capabilities, Nokia’s Network as Code platform and developer portal provides application developers with new tools, including: Software Development Kits (SDK); Network API documentation, a “sandbox” to create software code for use case simulation and testing; and code “snippets” that can be included in applications, as well as developer analytics to track usage.
DEVELOPER AND CSP COLLABORATION
The platform, commercially available starting in December 2023, follows months of close collaboration with application developers and CSPs.
In particular, developers were provided a deep view into the platform’s functionality, the network capabilities being made available to them, and how to apply them to their businesses. They also gave feedback on optimizing the platform, as did CSPs, which emphasized the need for ensuring secure connections with aggregator platforms that provide global reach.
STANDARDS AND REVENUE SHARING MODEL
The Nokia Network as Code platform has been shaped using technical standards produced through industry initiatives such as the Linux Foundation CAMARA project and the GSMA Open Gateway initiative; Nokia is an active contributor to both groups.
Nokia’s Network as Code platform is based on a revenue share model between developers, CSPs, and Nokia as the platform provider.
Raghav Sahgal, President of Cloud and Network Services at Nokia, said: “The Network as Code platform and developer portal underscore Nokia’s strategic commitment to leverage the broader B2B digitalization ecosystem. By making network programmability monetizable, this platform gives developers a meaningful way to create enhanced applications and experiences for their customers while providing CSPs a viable new pathway to utilize their 5G assets for enterprise and consumer value creation.”
