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DevelopmentBeginner2000

API

Application Programming Interface

An API is a connection that lets two pieces of software ask each other for information or actions.

Explained simply

An API is a connection that lets two pieces of software ask each other for information or actions.

1App request
→
2API connection
→
3Other service
→
4Result returned

At a glance

Category
Development
Difficulty
Beginner
Introduced
2000

Real example

A weather app uses an API to request today’s forecast from a weather service.

Why it matters

APIs are how many AI products connect to other services. They make integrations and automation possible.

Timeline

Origins

The ideas behind API begin developing.

2000

API becomes a recognised term or technique.

Wider use

Research and practical applications increase.

Modern AI

API becomes connected to newer AI systems and products.

Today

API remains relevant in the development area of AI.

Dates for broad concepts may describe the period when the idea emerged or became widely used, rather than one exact invention date.

Learn next

Continue with these connected terms:

WebhookA webhook automatically sends information from one application to another when a specific event happens.→Function CallingFunction calling lets an AI request a specific software action, such as checking the weather or creating a calendar event.→MCPMCP is an open standard that helps AI applications connect to tools, files and data sources in a consistent way.→

Simple infographic

A quick visual way to understand API.

1App request
→
2API connection
→
3Other service
→
4Result returned
1 of 6

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