Optus launches API Connect with Vonage for secure enterprise APIs

Optus has launched API Connect, a platform designed to provide enterprise customers with integrated communications capabilities backed by its network infrastructure and in partnership with Vonage.

API Connect is positioned as a response to increasing demand for smoother integration of communications into digital business processes. Marcus Grimes, Vice President, Product, Enterprise and Business at Optus, commented on the broader industry context: "As digital transformation accelerates, enterprise communications are undergoing a fundamental shift. No longer confined to siloed systems or reliant on third-party aggregators, modern communications infrastructure is being reimagined as a natural extension of the network itself."

The adoption of Communications Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS) solutions has grown, with Optus observing momentum towards telecommunications APIs, especially through collaborations with companies such as Vonage. "With nearly 75% of companies globally already using or planning to use Communications Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS), Optus is also seeing strong momentum behind integrated telecommunications APIs, particularly through partnerships like the one we have with industry leaders Vonage. This shift reflects a growing demand for secure, scalable platforms that can be deployed more efficiently. Our API Connect platform is designed to meet this need, enabling enterprise customers to embed real-time communications directly into their applications, backed by the performance and resilience of the Optus network," Grimes explained.

The API Connect platform offers direct network-level access to services such as SMS, voice, video, and in-app chat, removing the dependency on intermediary platforms. According to Grimes, "By taking a network-first approach to API delivery through the API Connect platform, we provide out-of-the-box access to enterprise-grade capabilities such as SMS, voice, video and in-app chat, all delivered directly from the Optus network layer. This eliminates the need for intermediary platforms, reduces latency, and ensures end-to-end control over data, security and compliance."

One of the features that distinguishes API Connect from traditional CPaaS offerings is its network integration. "Unlike traditional CPaaS models that rely on over-the-top (OTT) services, these network APIs are tightly integrated with Optus' core network," said Grimes. This deep integration grants customers access to network intelligence, supporting features like call verification, quality of service prioritisation, and fraud detection. Security is enforced at the network level, with protocols such as end-to-end encryption, token authentication, and comprehensive logging. "Security protocols such as end-to-end encryption, token-based authentication, and activity logging are implemented at the network level, not just the application layer, providing a deeper and more resilient security posture."

Optus has emphasised compliance and data sovereignty as part of its offer. "API Connect also ensures data sovereignty and compliance, as data remains within Optus' infrastructure. This is critical for organisations operating in regulated industries such as finance, healthcare, and government, where secure, compliant communications are non-negotiable," Grimes said.

A practical example of the platform's capabilities involves a large Australian digital marketplace that uses Optus-native APIs to enable secure communication between buyers and sellers. Features include private number masking, two-factor authentication delivered via the Optus network, and real-time notifications about order updates and delivery confirmations. "All of this is powered by a secure, scalable API layer that integrates directly with the platform's backend systems, including CRM and customer support tools. The result is a safer, more seamless user experience that builds trust and drives engagement," according to Grimes.

For software developers, API Connect has been built for ease of integration, offering RESTful endpoints, detailed documentation, and Software Development Kits covering languages such as Java, Node.js, and Python. Key features highlighted include modular design for independent services, webhook support, and modern authentication standards. Grimes described, "From a developer's perspective, Optus APIs are designed for rapid integration. RESTful endpoints, comprehensive documentation, and Software Development Kits (SDKs) for common platforms (e.g., Java, Node.js, Python) make it easy to embed communications into existing workflows."

Carrier-native APIs are described as inherently scalable. Grimes stated, "Carrier-native APIs are inherently more scalable than OTT solutions. For example, because they run on the same infrastructure that powers Optus' voice and data network, they can handle: high call and message volumes without performance degradation; dynamic scaling based on traffic patterns, with built-in load balancing; telco-grade SLAs for uptime, latency, and throughput. This makes them ideal for mission-critical applications, from emergency services to financial transactions."

Grimes also highlighted strategic benefits for enterprises: "Beyond the technical benefits, carrier-native APIs offer a strategic edge. They allow enterprises to: consolidate vendors and reduce integration complexity; accelerate time to market for new digital services; enhance customer experience through real-time, contextual communication; strengthen security posture by embedding protections at the infrastructure level. As APIs move from the backend to the boardroom, their role in shaping business outcomes is becoming clearer, they're not just enablers but also differentiators."

Looking to future trends in enterprise communications, Grimes concluded, "The next generation of enterprise communications will be defined by how well organisations can integrate, secure, and scale their digital interactions. Solutions like API Connect offer a future-proof foundation by combining the agility of modern software with the strength of Optus' infrastructure. At Optus, we're proud to lead this evolution. Whether our customers are looking to de-risk their communications stack, enhance customer trust, or unlock new digital experiences, our network is ready to support them securely, natively, and at scale."