API Definition

API is the abbreviation for application programming interface. Through an API external developers have access to the software of another software service. With this technologie, for instance, startups have the chance retrieving turnover data from banks. Banks as well as startups can offer APIs themselves, however, specialized service providers are also active on the market. This technology can be used for databases or hardware. Furthermore, it can simplify the user interface. This way, external companies are for instance able to use Windows APIs. APIs originated in the 1940s, though the term API did not emerge until the 1960s and 70s.