API3 is a blockchain initiative designed to bring decentralized blockchain apps together with the data and services delivered through Web APIs. The ecosystem provides multiple approaches aimed at the API space in the broader blockchain world, with the goal of forming a scalable, cooperative decentralized network of APIs. API3 supports APIs across a wide set of categories, including AI and Machine Learning, Blockchain Analytics, Credit Scoring and Lending, Digital Identity, E-sports, and more. To encourage participation, the project uses token rewards, community governance involvement, security-related incentives, and API3 token utility.

What are API3’s key features and how does it work?

API3’s platform includes several solution types. These consist of dedicated Web3 APIs, Beacons, dAPIs, and Airnodes. Web3 APIs are built for the expanding Web3 space. Some example APIs are:

Beacons are lightweight data feeds. Developers can use smart contracts to link Web3 applications with off-chain data streams, such as stock prices or cryptocurrency prices. This helps improve how openly data can be accessed for Web3 use cases while also lowering overall costs.

dAPIs serve as on-chain data feeds. They are decentralized in governance, commonly through DAOs. These dAPIs are created by API provider-operated oracles and do not depend on third parties to function. API3 token holders can join governance by staking API3. They also work as a cross-chain option because they can be connected to any blockchain.

Airnode acts as a Web3 API Gateway. It works as a middle layer that links any web API straight to any blockchain application. Airnode is serverless, so it does not need ongoing maintenance. Additional advantages include zero trust, simple operation, and the ability to extend into Web3 with minimal friction. It is also open source, giving businesses full control over how the API connects to the blockchain.

Where can you buy API3?

API3 can be traded on the CEXs and DEXs listed here. The best-known venues with the highest liquidity are Binance, OKX, and Gate.io. API3 pricing changes based on the exchange you use and broader market conditions. To see current and historical API3 market pricing, review the price charts on this page.