Revolutionizing Telecommunications: French Operators Collaborate with Aduna on API Innovation

French Operators Join Forces with Aduna to Transform Digital Innovation

In a remarkable move for the telecommunications sector, the French telecommunications landscape is witnessing a significant transformation as two of its leading operators, Bouygues Telecom and Free (iliad Group), join forces with Aduna and Ericsson. This strategic collaboration aims to foster the adoption and innovation of common network Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) globally, marking a new era for developers in the telecom industry.

Aduna, which was launched in September 2024, combines the efforts of prominent telecom companies to provide a collaborative platform for network APIs. The vision is clear: to enable developers to create applications that function seamlessly across various networks, thus accelerating innovation and enhancing the service capabilities of telecommunications exposed through APIs.

A Strategic Move for Digital Transformation

The integration of Bouygues Telecom and Free into the Aduna network of partners signifies an important step towards unlocking new digital innovation opportunities throughout France and beyond. With Orange already a founding member of the Aduna venture, this coalition sets the stage for comprehensive collaboration within the telecom sector.

Chrystel Abadie Truchet, Head of Strategy, Communication and Development at Bouygues Telecom, expressed enthusiasm for this collaboration, emphasizing its potential to drive digital transformation. “Joining forces with industry leaders like Free and Orange to launch network APIs is crucial for unlocking new opportunities in various sectors,” she stated.

Similarly, Rui Frazao, CTO of Free, highlighted that this partnership aligns with their strategy to democratize 5G technology and make network APIs more accessible to developers and service providers on a global scale. This accessibility is expected to build a more agile and innovative telecom environment, which is vital in today's fast-paced digital world.

Upcoming API Launch and Future Roadmap

The first APIs expected to be launched in early Spring 2025 include SIM Swap and KYC (Know Your Customer) functionalities. These will enhance security and improve digital identity verification, greatly benefiting users. Built upon the CAMARA framework, these initial offerings are anticipated to pave the way for additional capabilities, such as location verification and network insights—features that are in high demand from enterprises seeking data-driven solutions.

Otilia Anton from Orange highlighted the transformative potential of network APIs in creating programmable networks. She asserted that these APIs enable personalized and secure customer experiences by leveraging connectivity data. With Aduna simplifying global access to CAMARA APIs, the upcoming launch in France signifies a major step in enhancing the reach and value propositions of these technologies to combat identity fraud.

Driving Competitive Advantage Through Innovation

Aduna CEO Anthony Bartolo stated that making CAMARA-based network APIs accessible is crucial for developers aiming to enhance their innovation processes and strengthen competitive positioning in the market. He reiterated that this collaboration would not just benefit developers but would also empower enterprises across France to advance their digital transformation agendas significantly.

Industry players, including Jean-Marc Racine from Haivision, expressed their readiness to collaborate and leverage the unified CAMARA network APIs, indicating the broader impact this venture may have on various sectors, particularly in streamlining communications and enhancing live broadcasting capabilities.

In summary, the collaboration of prominent French telecom operators with Aduna heralds a new phase in the telecommunications industry. By unlocking the power of network APIs, this initiative stands to enhance innovation, streamline digital solutions, and, ultimately, improve customer experiences significantly. As this ambitious project unfolds, its ripple effects are expected to resonate throughout Europe and beyond, cementing France's position in the global API economy.