Nokia’s Strategic Acquisition of Rapid: Expanding the API Ecosystem for 5G and 4G Monetization

In an exciting move to reinforce its presence in the network API ecosystem, Nokia announced on November 13, 2024, that it has acquired Rapid’s technology assets, including the largest global API marketplace and an accomplished R&D team.

This acquisition will accelerate Nokia’s Network as Code platform and its API-centric strategy, leveraging Rapid’s renowned API Hub technology and extensive developer network to maximize 5G and 4G network monetization opportunities.

The acquisition empowers Nokia to build on its vision of an expansive API ecosystem, enabling telecom operators to monetize network assets by integrating 5G and 4G network capabilities. By acquiring Rapid’s API technology and expertise, Nokia positions itself as a central player in connecting operators to a large, global developer base that can create new consumer, enterprise, and industrial applications.

Key Highlights of Nokia’s Acquisition of Rapid

1. Enhancing Nokia’s API Infrastructure
   Rapid’s API technology, known for its secure API hub and public marketplace, will integrate with Nokia’s Network as Code platform, enabling seamless API lifecycle management and network integration for telecom operators.
2. Monetizing Network Assets through 5G and 4G
   As 5G continues to proliferate, telecom operators are seeking new ways to monetize their investments. The acquisition aligns with Nokia’s goal to expose network functions to developers in standardized ways, promoting the creation of novel applications across industries.
3. Expanding Developer Collaboration
   With Rapid’s extensive developer community, Nokia aims to drive API adoption and foster innovation across its global partnerships, including recent collaborations with BT, Google Cloud, Orange, and Telecom Argentina.
4. Supporting Operators and Enterprises in API Monetization
   Through its new capabilities, Nokia will offer operators an enhanced bridge to connect with developers, control API usage, and explore new revenue streams in the API economy, tapping into enterprise and consumer demand for network-based services.

This acquisition marks a strategic step for Nokia, underscoring its commitment to pioneering API solutions that bridge networks and developers.

With the backing of Rapid’s advanced API tools and seasoned team, Nokia is set to lead in network API development and usher in a new era of innovation and monetization in the telecommunications landscape.