Telefónica and Nokia explore agentic AI for network APIs

A telecom giant and a network infrastructure powerhouse are testing AI agent protocols to crack open API monetization and streamline how third parties tap network features.

Telefónica and Nokia team up on AI agent testing

• The duo is experimenting with two protocols that let AI systems chat and share resources.
• Model Context Protocol helps agents grab external tools in a standardized, secure way.
• Agent-to-Agent Protocol lets multiple bots discover each other and coordinate workflows dynamically.
• Both firms are already part of the GSMA Open Gateway Initiative, pushing interoperable APIs.

Bank fraud prevention gets the first lab run

• Telefónica's testbed uses Nokia's platform to expose SIM Swap and Device Swap APIs.
• Nokia's Network as Code system bundles those capabilities for simpler developer access.
• A fraud-blocking agent in the lab is the guinea pig for the setup.
• More use cases are lined up for joint testing down the road.

Why this matters for telecom monetization

• Telefónica's exec says being ready for AI agents is critical to selling network capabilities.
• Nokia's team claims the combo creates a dev-friendly path toward agent-driven revenue models.
• The collaboration aims to lower barriers for partners building services on programmable networks.
• Both companies plan to share findings with the industry to speed up standardization.