In the world of modern technology, the term "API" is everywhere, leaving a lot of us pondering as to what they are. Whether you're a developer or just a tech-savvy individual, APIs play a crucial role in our digital lives. But what exactly are APIs, and how do they empower the apps and services we rely on daily? So, let's unravel the mystery of APIs, and explore their definition(s), types, and real-world applications.
What is an "API"?
API stands for Application Programming Interface, a term that may sound intimidating at first, but extremely essential in the tech world. At its core, an API is a bridge that connects different software applications, enabling them to inter-communicate. Think of it as a universal translator that allows different programs to understand and work together seamlessly. There are three main types of APIs each with their unique functionality and use.
Types of APIs :
Web APIs: These APIs are used on the internet and are accessible through HTTPS protocols and are used for integrating web services and fetching data from remote servers throughout the inter-web. The most common modern-day web API is RESTful API.
Library or Framework APIs: These APIs come bundled with programming languages, libraries, and frameworks. They help developers avoid having to write code from scratch, by serving as pre-built developer tools. One such example is Python, which has an extensive amount of APIs for tasks like file handling and networking.
Operating System APIs: These special APIs provide access to the core features of an operating system. They are crucial for enabling applications to interact with each other, file systems, and other system-related tasks.
APIs Powering Modern-Day Apps and Services
Third-Party Services: Many mainstream applications and services such as Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Google Maps integrate APIs into their software and applications. Most of these use a combination of custom as well as open-source APIs.
Social Media Sharing: The most common API used is in the "Share" button. The button leverages APIs to seamlessly and easily post your content online.
E-commerce Application: Many online e-com websites such as Amazon, eBay, and Flipkart leverage APIs for payment systems, inventory tracking systems, shipping services, and tracking services. These help ensure that all the data shared through these services remains secure, accessible, and accurate.
IoT(Internet of Things) Integration: All smart homes and smart appliances/devices communicate using APIs. Some examples would be smart refrigerators self-ordering food that may be running low, smart thermostats may adjust the temperature based on the weather outside.
All in all, APIs are the workers behind the scenes, laying the foundation for all inter-device integration and communication. While yes, their name may sound intimidating and technical, they are essential and are the backbone of the modern digital world.
When you tap into your favourite social media app or decide to watch a video on YouTube about puppies falling off couches, it's APIs that help play the video. They're the feature-rich developer tools that help innovate the future of our techno-world.
In the upcoming blog, we'll talk about how to implement your very first API and take a look at the technical aspects behind APIs.
This post was written by Eash G.