#Mexico #Mexico City #GSMA Open Gateway #Digital Services #Mexico Telecom

Mexico's Mobile Industry Collaborates for Innovation

In a significant move to foster innovation in the digital sector, major mobile network operators in Mexico, including Altán Redes, América Móvil, AT&T Mexico, and Telefónica Mexico, announced the launch of the GSMA Open Gateway initiative at the GSMA M360 LATAM event. This initiative aims to simplify the development of applications and digital services by providing developers with easier access to mobile network capabilities.

What is GSMA Open Gateway?

GSMA Open Gateway is a global initiative led by the GSMA that encourages mobile operators worldwide to open their networks to third-party developers. By doing so, it facilitates the development of new digital products that can function seamlessly across various devices, irrespective of the country or carrier involved. At the core of this initiative are unique access points known as Application Programming Interfaces (APIs), which serve as gateways to vital information about network capacities.

These APIs are made available through the CAMARA repository, a collaborative open-source project initiated by the GSMA in partnership with the Linux Foundation. Developers can utilize these APIs to integrate essential network functionalities directly into their applications, significantly streamlining the innovation process.

Benefits of GSMA Open Gateway

The adoption of GSMA Open Gateway has far-reaching implications for the telecom sector and the app development landscape. By providing standardized APIs, the initiative not only accelerates the pace of innovation for developers but also enriches the user experience with enhanced security and operational efficiency. The first phase of the GSMA Open Gateway focuses specifically on APIs related to digital security, marking a landmark step towards more secure and reliable mobile interactions.

The APIs currently introduced in Mexico include:

• - SIM SWAP: Allows for verification of SIM card swaps within a mobile network.
• - Device Location: Provides real-time location data of connected devices.
• - Number Verification: Confirms if a telephone number is associated with a specific device.

These services play an essential role in identifying and preventing fraud during financial transactions and other high-stakes activities. For example, they can detect unauthorized changes to a customer's mobile account just before a significant money transfer, alerting the user and enhancing overall security.

Rapid Adoption and Expansion

Since its debut at the MWC Barcelona in 2023, the GSMA Open Gateway initiative has seen rapid adoption worldwide. Over 73 mobile operator groups, representing 284 mobile networks and nearly 80% of global mobile connections, have joined the initiative. Additionally, 43 partners are now engaged in promoting and developing these capabilities.

In Latin America, countries such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Peru have already begun rolling out their first API portfolios under this initiative, with more markets expected to follow suit by 2025. This collaborative approach will not only stimulate local economies but also enhance customer experiences across the region.

Conclusion

The collaboration among Mexico’s leading mobile operators marks a pivotal moment in the telecom industry, spearheading a transformative shift towards a more integrated, innovative, and secured digital ecosystem. By leveraging the capabilities of GSMA Open Gateway, the Mexican mobile sector is set to redefine how applications and services are developed, ultimately benefiting consumers, developers, and businesses alike. As this initiative expands, it promises to pave the way for more robust digital infrastructures, propelling Mexico to the forefront of digital innovation in telecommunications.