Sri Lanka Mobile Operators Launch GSMA Open Gateway Initiative for Digital Services :- Sri Lanka’s four mobile operators, Bharti Airtel Lanka, Dialog Axiata, Hutchison Telecommunications Lanka, and SLT-Mobitel, have commercially launched three new network APIs as part of the GSMA Open Gateway initiative. The three APIs are:
- One Time Password (OTP) Validation: This API allows developers to verify OTPs sent to mobile users, which can be used for authentication or two-factor authentication.
- Device Location: This API allows developers to get the approximate location of a mobile device, which can be used for location-based services or advertising.
- Carrier Billing: This API allows developers to bill mobile users directly through their mobile operator, which can be used for in-app purchases or subscriptions.
The GSMA Open Gateway initiative is designed to help developers and businesses accelerate the growth of digital services and apps by providing a single integration that works across all mobile networks in a country. This means that developers can build once and deploy to all mobile users, without having to worry about integrating with each operator individually.
The GSMA Open Gateway initiative is also globally federated, which means that developers can reach new subscribers outside of Sri Lanka as Open Gateway coverage grows. More than 36 mobile operator groups, representing 214 mobile networks and 60% of mobile connections worldwide, are now part of the Open Gateway initiative.
The launch of the GSMA Open Gateway initiative in Sri Lanka is a significant development for the country’s digital economy. It will make it easier for developers to build and launch new digital services and apps, and it will give Sri Lankan mobile users access to a wider range of innovative digital experiences.
Here are some examples of how the GSMA Open Gateway APIs can be used:
- OTP Validation: A bank could use the OTP Validation API to verify OTPs sent to customers when they are logging in to their mobile banking app.
- Device Location: A food delivery app could use the Device Location API to get the customer’s location so that they can deliver the food to the correct address.
- Carrier Billing: A game developer could use the Carrier Billing API to allow players to purchase in-game items directly through their mobile operator account.
The GSMA Open Gateway initiative has the potential to revolutionize the way that digital services are developed and delivered in Sri Lanka. It is a welcome development for both developers and consumers.
Benefits of the GSMA Open Gateway Initiative :
The GSMA Open Gateway initiative offers a number of benefits to developers, businesses, and consumers:
- Accelerated innovation: By providing a single integration that works across all mobile networks in a country, Open Gateway makes it easier for developers to build and launch new digital services and apps. This can lead to faster innovation and the development of new and innovative digital experiences for consumers.
- Improved customer experience: Open Gateway can help businesses improve the customer experience by providing a more seamless and integrated experience across different digital services. For example, a customer may be able to use the same login credentials across multiple apps, or they may be able to make in-app purchases directly through their mobile operator account.
- Reduced costs and complexity: Open Gateway can help businesses reduce the costs and complexity of developing and launching digital services. By providing a single integration, Open Gateway eliminates the need to integrate with each mobile operator individually. This can save businesses time and money, and it can also reduce the risk of errors.
- Increased reach: Open Gateway is globally federated, which means that developers can reach new subscribers outside of their country as Open Gateway coverage grows. This can help businesses expand their reach and grow their customer base.
Here are some specific examples of how the GSMA Open Gateway Initiative can benefit different stakeholders:
- Developers: Developers can use the Open Gateway APIs to build and launch new digital services and apps more quickly and easily. They can also reach a wider audience by targeting users of all mobile networks in a country.
- Businesses: Businesses can use the Open Gateway APIs to improve the customer experience, reduce costs and complexity, and increase reach. They can also use Open Gateway to develop new and innovative digital services and products.
- Consumers: Consumers can benefit from the Open Gateway Initiative by having access to a wider range of digital services and apps, and by enjoying a more seamless and integrated customer experience.
Overall, the GSMA Open Gateway Initiative has the potential to benefit all stakeholders in the digital ecosystem. It is a welcome development for developers, businesses, and consumers alike.
