Nokia introduced its Network as Code platform and developer portal that 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 such as 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.
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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, and the network capabilities being made available to them and how to apply them to their business. They also gave feedback for optimizing the platform, as did CSPs, which emphasized a need for ensuring secure connections with aggregator platforms that provide global reach.
DISH WIRELESS AGREEMENT
Reflecting the close collaboration, Nokia and DISH Wireless have agreed to a memorandum of understanding to partner on an ecosystem project that enables enterprises to develop applications using advanced mobile and 5G network capabilities.
The new ecosystem will utilize Nokia’s Network as Code platform and the DISH 5G cloud-native network to provide enterprises with access to software development tools, like advanced network traffic controls, quality of service management, and access to user information like location and device status.
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.
SOURCE: GlobeNewswire